Amidst the anticipation surrounding the Queen's Platinum Jubilee weekend, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's plans to introduce their children, Archie and Lilibet, to Her Majesty have hit a snag.
A royal photographer has disclosed that the Queen declined to have a picture taken with Lilibet, citing concerns that it could overshadow the monarch's scheduled events.
While the public eagerly awaits images of the family's first encounter, experts caution against expecting a flood of photos to be released.
Renowned royal photographer Arthur Edwards expressed his apprehension, emphasizing that a premature photo release could detract from the Queen's efforts to make meaningful appearances during the Jubilee celebrations.
In a bold move to deter the Sussexes from stealing the spotlight, Edwards penned a letter urging them to exercise restraint.
He emphasized the potential impact of a photo capturing the Queen meeting Lilibet, warning that it could eclipse other significant Jubilee moments.
Not everyone shares Edwards' viewpoint, as royal editor Katie Nicholl highlighted the Queen's remarkable capacity for forgiveness.
Speculating on the Sussexes' future interactions with the monarch, Nicholl suggested that reconciliation might be on the horizon.
The rift between the royal family and Harry and Meghan was further underscored by Buckingham Palace's decision to exclude the couple from appearing on the Royal Balcony during the upcoming Trooping the Colour parade on June 2.
This exclusion follows the emergence of footage from a previous event showing Harry instructing Meghan to adjust her position on the balcony.
As preparations for the Thanksgiving ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral on June 3 unfold, it has been confirmed that Archie and Lilibet will not be in attendance due to their young age.
Presenter Storm Huntley revealed that Meghan and Harry, along with Prince Andrew, will participate in the ceremony as non-working senior royals.
Huntley emphasized the familial nature of the event, noting that it offers a unique opportunity for the Sussexes and Prince Andrew to participate alongside other family members.
While Archie and Lilibet will miss out on this occasion, older grandchildren are expected to be present.
The Thanksgiving ceremony serves as a prelude to Lilibet's upcoming birthday on June 4, adding a personal touch to the family's calendar of events.
Despite the absence of the youngest royals, the gathering promises to be a heartwarming and intimate affair for those in attendance.
