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However, a new book shows that the tension between Charles and Meghan began much earlier. Learn about the King’s kind gesture and how Markle’s response shocked him. Get all the details below.
Meghan Markle Released Statement Before Wedding
When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made their wedding plans, the royal family assumed that her father would walk her down the aisle. However, that plan didn’t work out. And so Meghan needed to find a new escort for her walk down the wedding aisle to tie the knot with Harry. As a result, Charles made a kind gesture, according to a royal biographer per the Daily Express.
Describing what happened before Meghan and Harry tied the knot on May 19, 2018, at Windsor Castle, royal biographer Robert Hardman’s just-published Queen of Our Times: The Life of Elizabeth II explains what led to Charles’ kindness. Rumors had swirled about if Meghan’s father, Thomas Markle Sr., would walk her down the aisle. However, prior to the wedding, Meghan released an unusual statement.
“Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding. I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health. I would like to thank everyone who has offered generous messages of support. Please know how much Harry and I look forward to sharing our special day with you,” stated Markle.
King Charles Stunned At Meghan Markle’s Reaction To His Kindness
Because tradition calls for a family member to walk the bride down the aisle, the royal family then assumed that Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, would do the honors. But then Charles felt compassionate toward his future daughter-in-law. And so Markle’s soon to be father-in-law told Meghan that he would feel honored to escort her up the aisle of St. George’s Chapel to the alter.
However, Charles felt stunned at Markle’s reaction. Because in response to his compassionate offer and gracious phrasing about feeling honored to escort her, Meghan made a four-word demand. And she indicated that she wanted to make an all-eyes-on-her solo entrance.
“Feeling for his future daughter-in-law, the Prince of Wales offered to step in,” recalled the royal biographer. And Charles said he would be “honored to escort Meghan up the aisle of St George’s Chapel to the altar. The reply was not quite what he was expecting: ‘Can we meet halfway?’” demanded Markle.
King Charles Recognized Meghan Markle’s Independence
As a result, Charles immediately recognized that Harry had chosen an extremely independent woman who wanted to make her majestic entrance by herself. However, in some ways, Harry didn’t understand what Meghan’s change to Charles’ generous offer meant. Because the Duke of Sussex later said of his father, “He immediately said, ‘Yes, of course, I’ll do whatever Meghan needs and I’m here to support you’.”
And Harry even thought that Charles’ offer would give his father “a fantastic opportunity to step up and be that support.” But sadly, Markle chose to prioritize keeping all eyes on her when she entered the church. As a result, she told Charles what to do rather than graciously accepting his offer.
Tell us what you think. How do you feel that Meghan Markle should have reacted to King Charles offering to escort her down the aisle? And do you think Prince Harry recognized what it meant that his bride told his father how to behave at the wedding? After you share your views, check back on our site for more royal family news.
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