Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chose to focus on their children by spending Christmas 2024 at their residence in Montecito, California. According to a royal author, the Duchess of Sussex, 43, convinced the Duke of Sussex, 40, to decline a holiday invite from the family of his late mother, Princess Diana.
The Spare author and Suits alum celebrated the holiday with their son, Prince Archie, 5, and their daughter, Princess Lilibet, 3. Royal biographer Ingrid Seward recently dished that the duo turned down an invitation to join festivities at Althorp House in Northampton, U.K., the estate belonging to Charles, Earl Spencer, the brother of the late Diana, Princess of Wales.
Royal Author Claims Meghan Markle Persuaded Prince Harry to Decline Princess Diana’s Family’s Holiday Invitation in England
As writer Seward told the Mirror: "Harry and Meghan were invited for Christmas at Althorp with thrice-married Uncle Charles, now Earl Spencer, but have decided to stay in California." She added: "Meghan says it’s important for her that Archie and Lilibet can have 'connective memories' of Thanksgiving and Christmas at home and enjoy the traditions like putting out 'carrots for the reindeer.'"
Despite the divide between the Sussexes and the royal family, Harry and his uncle Earl Spencer have reportedly maintained a strong bond. Over the past few years, Harry and Markle have made several trips to Althorp. Additionally, the Duke's uncle joined the celebration for the 10th anniversary of his nephew's Invictus Games in London last May.
Markle's mother, Doria Ragland, was said to be the sole family member who joined the Sussexes for their intimate Christmas gathering. In a conversation with Marie Claire last November, Markle (who just made an Instagram comeback) expressed her deep affection for the holiday season.
The mom of two explained that her children are now "3 and 5," so "every year it gets better." "At first, I think, as a mom with children, you’re just enjoying having them there, but they’re not understanding everything that’s happening yet," she shared. The With Love, Meghan star added: "But now we’re at the age where I just can’t wait to see it through their lens every year."
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Meghan Markle Announces New Lifestyle Netflix Show, With Love, Meghan On New Instagram Account
This week, Markle revealed her latest lifestyle show on her recently launched Instagram account. Scheduled to debut on January 15th, the Netflix series represents a new and intimate project for Markle, who serves as both host and executive producer.
In a new post for her 1.2 million followers, Markle posted the trailer for the forthcoming show. She wrote in her January 2nd caption: "I have been so excited to share this with you! I hope you love the show as much as I loved making it. Wishing you all a fantastic new year! Thanks to our amazing crew and the team @netflix. Beyond grateful for the support - and fun!" She signed off: "As ever, Meghan."
