The News
A Royal Reunion: The Princes and Princesses of Wales Honor Queen Elizabeth
In a heartfelt display of unity, Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle came together on Saturday to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
This marked a poignant moment for the royal family as they greeted mourners and viewed tributes outside Windsor Castle.
It was the first joint appearance for the new Prince and Princess of Wales since their recent title changes, and the presence of Harry and Meghan added an unexpected touch of warmth to the occasion.
The foursome spent approximately 40 minutes engaging with well-wishers who had gathered to honor the Queen's memory.
Kensington Palace revealed that Prince William had extended the invitation to his brother and sister-in-law, demonstrating a willingness to bridge familial divides during this time of mourning.
The gathering drew a significant crowd, a testament to the public's enduring affection for the late monarch.
Recently relocated to Windsor, William and Kate are now just a stone's throw away from Harry and Meghan's U.K. residence at Frogmore Cottage, which sits on the grounds of the Queen's estate.
The couple, who made headlines for moving to California in 2020, will remain in the U.K. until the Queen's funeral, allowing them to partake in these pivotal moments as a family.
Earlier that day, William had already engaged in a solemn royal duty.
He attended the historic proclamation of his father, King Charles III, at St. James's Palace in London.
During this formal ceremony, senior officials, judges, and Church of England leaders gathered to declare Charles as the rightful monarch following the passing of Queen Elizabeth.
The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the proclamation echoed through the halls.
In a touching moment, King Charles acknowledged his younger son during his initial address as monarch.
He expressed his love for Harry and Meghan, emphasizing their continued journey overseas while also recognizing the importance of family ties during such a challenging period.
This gesture highlighted a desire for reconciliation amid the backdrop of royal tradition.
As news of the Queen's declining health spread on Thursday, Prince William wasted no time preparing to travel to Scotland.
He was joined by his uncles, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward, along with Edward's wife, Sophie, Countess of Wessex.
Meanwhile, Harry, who was in Europe for prior engagements, also made his way to Balmoral but unfortunately arrived too late to see his grandmother one last time.
In contrast, Charles and Princess Anne were able to reach Balmoral Castle in time to be by the Queen's side before her peaceful passing at the age of 96.
Buckingham Palace confirmed the news in an official statement, which conveyed the deep sense of loss felt by the entire nation.
Following the Queen's death, the royal family has been navigating a complex emotional landscape.
William and Kate, having just been named the Prince and Princess of Wales, are stepping into their new roles during a time of great transition.
Their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, have also started school at Lambrook, marking a new chapter for the family.