Just over two years ago, a series of significant events unfolded: a catastrophic car chase, a coronation, and multiple battles with cancer. These moments have reshaped many aspects of royal life, but one thing remains undiscussed: Queen Elizabeth II's funeral may have been the last time the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, appeared together in public. It could very well be the last photo ever taken of the two women side by side.
Ask yourself, when will they ever be in the same room again? The only scenario where we might see them together could be at King Charles’ funeral, but even that feels unlikely. At Queen Elizabeth's funeral, Prince Harry was relegated to the second row, and for his own father’s coronation, he was pushed back to the third. One can only wonder where Harry might sit when that inevitable dark day arrives.
Earlier this week, Prince William and Princess Catherine (Kate Middleton) submitted their first request to secure a U.S. trademark focusing on mental health projects. This could potentially overlap with the Sussexes’ work in America. According to sources, Meghan Markle was shocked upon discovering that William and Kate plan to increase their presence in the U.S. after trademarking their foundation's brand with American authorities. Though the couple has made a few trips to the U.S., it’s not traditionally their territory. Now, Meghan reportedly feels as if they might be encroaching on her turf.
Palace sources, however, downplayed these concerns, stating that the Waleses’ plans are merely internal housekeeping. Surprisingly, the move is seen as a positive step in Catherine’s recovery.
Back in July 2019, the last time Catherine and Meghan were photographed together, they were at least trying to put on a good show of camaraderie. This was during the height of rumors that Meghan had made Catherine cry ahead of her wedding to Harry. That appearance marked the final time the two daughters-in-law were seen speaking to one another. By March 2020, at the Commonwealth Day service, they didn’t even look at each other, let alone exchange words.
Royal events are known for their grandeur and polished appearances, but awkward moments still occur. One such incident took place between the two women during Queen Elizabeth II's committal service. As the royal families approached their seats, Prince William directed his family where to go. He had arrived first and instructed his son, Prince George, to pause. However, Catherine, unaware of the situation, tried to walk ahead. William then pointed out they needed to wait, so she stepped back to allow Prince Harry and Meghan to proceed.
In that moment, Catherine made a brief, almost hesitant gesture as she moved aside for Meghan. The shuffle, although subtle, caught the attention of social media, especially given the tense atmosphere surrounding the event.
It’s worth considering that publicly airing family grievances and criticizing one's in-laws, as Meghan and Harry have done, often comes with consequences. Many reports suggest that King Charles III is still wary of rebuilding a relationship with Harry.
As Prince Harry returned to the UK earlier this week for a charity event, his older brother, Prince William, reshared an emotional message from his wife, Catherine. This timing coincided with Harry’s presence in London, where he attended a ceremony honoring the bravery and achievements of seriously ill children and their families.