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**Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Ban Another Friend Over ‘Ginger Nuts’ Joke**
Comedian Jack Whitehall has found himself on the outs with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle after a playful jab at the prince during the Royal Variety performance.
Whitehall, who is based in LA near the couple, hinted that his lighthearted jest might have led to his exclusion from their circle.
This move adds to the list of celebrities reportedly cut off by the prince since his relationship with Meghan began.
One such figure is sprinter Usain Bolt, who confessed to the severed ties due to Harry's swift commitment to Meghan.
Concerns also arise among Harry's old Etonian and military companions, fearing potential revelations in his upcoming book that could strain their relationship with the couple.
During a recent appearance at the London Palladium, Whitehall expressed unease over being shunned, attributing it to his 2015 quip about the prince.
The incident occurred prior to Harry's courtship with Meghan, despite Whitehall's longstanding friendship with the royal pair through shared social circles.
Whitehall's father, Michael, humorously referenced Meghan's book, “The Bench,” which he claimed inspired him to consider writing.
The children's book, described as a tribute to Harry and their son, received modest sales upon its release in June.
Michael playfully teased Harry about the book's simplicity and alluded to Whitehall's banishment from the Sussexes.
Reflecting on his exclusion, Whitehall speculated that his nickname for Harry, ‘ginger nuts,' may have sealed his fate.
Despite their history, Whitehall was notably absent from the couple's wedding at Windsor Castle, contrasting with his attendance at Princess Eugenie's ceremony later that year.
Bolt's friendship with Harry soured after the sprinter met Meghan, leading to a noticeable lack of communication between them.
Their initial camaraderie, marked by playful exchanges and friendly competitions, faded as Harry embraced married life with Meghan.
The prince's evolving relationships align with reports of distancing from his former inner circle ahead of his marriage to Meghan.
Allegations surfaced that Harry distanced himself from certain acquaintances to accommodate Meghan's preferences, underscoring the shifting dynamics within his social sphere.