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Cold Reception for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle faced a chilly reception as they returned to the United Kingdom for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The royal family member who seemed particularly displeased with Prince Charles' second son was Mike Tindall, husband of the Queen's granddaughter, Zara Tindall.
Known for his championship-winning rugby career, penchant for hard drinking, and a history of broken noses, Mike Tindall is not your typical image of a British royal family member.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex made their first joint visit to the UK since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020.
While some viewed their departure as a form of liberation, others within the British public and royal family expressed negative sentiments towards what was dubbed as “Megxit.”
Tensions escalated further following the couple's controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey, where they criticized the royal family for alleged racism and lack of support.
Harry and Meghan also accused Prince William and Prince Charles of feeling trapped in their royal roles.
According to reports, the royal family was less than pleased with Harry and Meghan's public statements, setting the stage for an uncomfortable reunion during the Jubilee celebrations.
Despite feeling cautiously excited about reuniting with the rest of the family, the Sussexes were met with a frosty atmosphere upon their return.
The family gathering was a chance for them to demonstrate their continued connection to the royal lineage, without overshadowing the Queen's celebratory moment.
During the event, Meghan and Harry were notably excluded from the Buckingham Palace balcony and denied the opportunity to capture a photograph of Queen Elizabeth meeting her great-granddaughter, Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor.
Their interaction with the monarch reportedly lasted a mere 15 minutes, highlighting the strained relations.
At St. Paul's Cathedral, where they attended a thanksgiving service, the Sussexes made their first public appearance alongside the royal family since stepping down from their official roles.
Body language experts observed Mike Tindall's discomfort as he avoided direct interaction with Harry and Meghan, opting to engage with others instead.
Lady Colin Campbell remarked on the noticeable avoidance displayed by Mike Tindall towards the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Following the event, reports surfaced of Mike Tindall referring to Prince Harry as a derogatory term during a private conversation with a fellow guest at a separate gathering.
While some videos captured audible boos directed at the couple, there were also instances of cheers for Meghan and Harry outside of St. Paul's Cathedral, indicating a mixed reception from the British public.
Despite the divided opinions, it appears that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle still have some work to do to win over individuals like Mike Tindall, who remain skeptical of their actions.