Their connection with the Van Straubenzee family dates back to their childhood when Harry and Charlie were classmates at Ludgrove Prep School. Furthermore, both Harry and William were ushers at the 2013 wedding of Charlie's brother, Thomas, to Lady Melissa Percy. Thomas Van Straubenzee also holds the role of being Princess Charlotte's godfather, signifying the deep bond shared between the families.
However, things took a significant turn since Meghan Markle entered the picture. While Harry and Meghan attended a Carol service in support of the Henry Van Straubenzee Memorial Fund in December 2018, Harry's speech at the event raised eyebrows.
Instead of delivering the anticipated festive reading, Harry gave a solemn sermon about period poverty, a topic deemed inappropriate by some for the aristocratic congregation present. Friends of Harry believe the speech may not have entirely been his own creation and that Meghan may have influenced his decision to address period poverty, a noble cause but an odd fit for the event's tone.
The Henry Van Straubenzee Memorial Fund was established in memory of Henry Van Straubenzee, who tragically died in a car crash at the age of 18 in 2002. It aims to improve the lives of children by providing education and support. William and Harry have been patrons of the fund since 2009. However, period poverty was not part of their mission, making Harry's focus on it during the Christmas concert in 2018 perplexing to many.
The fallout from this speech was significant, with many of the friends who attended the event distancing themselves from Harry. Reports suggest that Harry has been cut off by all mutual friends, and the Van Straubenzee family has limited contact with the Sussexes as a result. Now, as the Van Straubenzee family plans an upcoming memorial service, Charlie Van Straubenzee has no intention of inviting Meghan or Harry, making it clear that they are to stay away from significant events.
