As plans ramp up for America’s landmark 250th anniversary next summer, senior members of the British royal family are reportedly preparing for a high-profile visit to the United States. But according to multiple sources, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will not be part of the festivities. Insiders claim that the decision stems from the couple’s status outside the working royal fold.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry excluded as they ‘aren’t working royals,’ per source
According to sources cited by Page Six, Prince William and Princess Kate are expected to participate in commemorative events in July 2026. Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla have reportedly been invited to Washington, D.C., for a State Visit in April. Officials familiar with the planning reportedly hope several senior royals will take part. They are said to have called 2026 “a huge year for both the US and the UK.”
The celebrations were reportedly a major topic at Charles’ recent 77th birthday event in New York City, hosted by JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon. But while enthusiasm gathered around the monarch’s anticipated U.S. engagements, sources told the outlet that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are not on the guest list.
One insider claimed the reasoning is straightforward. Harry and Meghan “aren’t working royals, so they will not be invited to any celebrations,” the source allegedly said. “Any invitation would have to come at the behest of the royal family themselves.”
Although the couple stepped down from official duties in 2020, they still use their royal titles privately. This was highlighted in a recent Harper’s Bazaar profile in which Markle was introduced as “Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.”
The couple’s strained relationship with the royal family remains part of the backdrop. As per Page Six, Harry and William “have not spoken in more than two years.” The Sussexes’ interviews, Netflix series, and Harry’s memoir have allegedly deepened mistrust within the family.
It’s worth noting that Harry has publicly expressed interest in reconciliation. He previously told the BBC he does not wish to fight with his father, given he does not know “how much longer” his father has. Nonetheless, sources suggest repairing the relationship remains complicated.
