Late Queen was in ‘crippling pain’ every day towards the end of her life

Towards the end of her life, the late Queen Elizabeth was in ‘crippling pain’ every day, a royal expert has claimed, but despite this she continued with her royal duties right until the very end

Queen Elizabeth was in ‘crippling pain’ at the end of her life – expert (Image: Getty Images)

 

When the late Queen Elizabeth was approaching the end of her life, she relentlessly experienced “crippling pain” every day, but she never allowed this to get in the way of completing her royal duties.

King Charles – then the Prince of Wales – was ready on hand to deputise for his mother, and royal aides even reportedly encouraged the late Queen to hand over some of her high-profile final duties to her son given the health challenges she was facing. But despite the help available to her, the former monarch refused these offers, putting her duty above her personal comfort right until the end of her life – a royal author has claimed.

The author – Omid Scobie – revealed just how much the late Queen Elizabeth was struggling behind closed doors during her final days in his bombshell book Endgame. The author explained that when Boris Johnson resigned as Prime Minister and Liz Truss took his place, royal aides suggested that Charles invite Truss to form a new government, given the “crippling pain” the late Queen was in.

However, Scobie wrote, the late Queen “defiantly” refused the suggestion, showing her intrinsic commitment to her duties as monarch. The meetings went ahead in Balmoral, so Queen Elizabeth didn’t have to travel to London just two days before her death. “Concerned courtiers suggested to the monarch that she might be better off letting Prince Charles carry out the task in her place,” Scobie wrote. “After all, the heir had already stood in for his mother at the opening of Parliament four months earlier. But this was one duty the Queen—despite the crippling pain she was experiencing in private—would not step aside from. ‘It’s my job,’ she defiantly told aides.

 

“Her meeting with Truss was short, lasting a little under an hour, and the Queen concluded it by allowing a photograph of the two to be released—the monarch with her walking stick in her hand (a dark wood favoUrite that once belonged to Prince Philip) and a room-lighting smile.”

The meeting with Truss saw the final public photographs of the late Queen taken by Jane Barlow, PA Media photographer, who called it “an honour and a privilege” to snap the last official pictures of the monarch. Barlow also has revealed to the BBC that despite the visible frailty of the late Queen, even in her final days she was in “good spirits” and “very smiley”.

Prince Harry Says He’ll Never Bring Meghan Markle Back To The UK

Prince Harry has no plans to return to his homeland. In the ITV documentary Tabloids on Trial, which aired on July 26 and explores several legal battles against U.K. newspapers, the Duke of Sussex voiced safety concerns about bringing his wife Meghan Markle, and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, back to Britain.

“It’s still dangerous, and all it takes is one lone actor, one person who reads this stuff to act on what they have read,” he said in the doc. “Whether it’s a knife or acid, whatever it is, and these are things that are of genuine concern for me. It’s one of the reasons why I won’t bring my wife back to this country.”

Harry announced in January 2020 that he and the Duchess of Sussex would be stepping back from their royal duties. In June of that year, the couple moved to California, where they currently reside with their two children.

 

After retreating from royal life, Harry and Meghan’s right to police security in the U.K. was removed by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures. In 2023, the Duke challenged the decision in court, offering to pay for police protection himself.

In a court statement at the time, Harry said he and Meghan “felt forced” to leave the U.K. due to safety concerns. His statement came after the former head of counterterrorism for the Metropolitan Police, Neil Basu, said the agency had found “disgusting and very real” threats to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

In February 2024, Harry lost his case against the U.K. government, but is able to appeal the court’s decision about his family’s access to police protection.

 

Harry’s Royal Rift

In the recent Tabloids on Trial doc, the Duke also spoke of his recent legal battles with British tabloids, which included taking a newspaper group to court over the alleged hacking of his phone.

Harry explained that his legal challenges have been a “central piece” in his rift with senior members of the royal family. However, he stands by his decision to call out the “torrent of abuse from the press.”

“It would be nice if we did it as a family,” he said in the doc. “I believe that from a service standpoint and when you’re in a public role, that these are the things that we should be doing for the greater good.”

Meghan Markle Says Opening Up About Her Mental Health Was “Worth It”

Trigger warning: This piece contains references to suicidal thoughts.

 

Meghan Markle keeps getting candid about her mental health. On Aug. 4, the Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry were interviewed on CBS Sunday Morning to talk about their latest project, The Parents Network, which aims to support parents whose children have been “affected by social media harms.”

 

During their sit-down, host Jane Pauley asked Meghan about her 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, in which she shared that she “didn’t want to be alive anymore” during her time as a working member of the royal family. While the duchess “wasn’t expecting” to be asked about the famed interview, Meghan said she stands by her decision to open up to Winfrey about her struggles with mental health and thoughts of suicide at the time.

“When you’ve been through any level of pain or trauma, I believe part of our healing journey, certainly part of mine, is being able to be really open about it,” she said, adding that she hasn’t “really scraped the surface” about her experiences in the British monarchy following her and Harry’s exit from the royal sphere in early 2020.

“I would never want someone else to not be believed,” Meghan continued. “If me voicing what I have overcome will save someone, or encourage someone in their life to really, genuinely check in on them, and not assume that the appearance is good so everything’s OK, then that’s worth it.”

 

Following Harry and Meghan’s 2021 interview with Winfrey, which was watched by 17 million viewers in the United States alone, the royal family released a statement addressing the duchess’ comments about her mental health, among other revelations.

“The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan,” a Buckingham Palace statement read. “While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.”

Prince Harry Was “Devastated”

The Duke of Sussex previously spoke of his wife’s mental health struggles in the couple’s 2022 Netflix documentary, Harry & Meghan, revealing that he was “devastated” to learn she had been experiencing suicidal ideation.

“I never thought that it would get to that stage,” he said. “The fact that it got to that stage, I felt angry and ashamed. I didn’t deal with it particularly well. I dealt with it as ‘institutional Harry’ as opposed to ‘husband Harry.’ And what took over my feelings was my royal role.”

Meghan Markle reveals: “Kate always copies my outfits and mannerisms; she’s jealous of everything about me.”

In a striking and candid revelation, Meghan Markle opened up about her frustrations with Kate Middleton, claiming that the Princess of Wales had a habit of copying her style and mannerisms. During a revealing interview, Meghan disclosed that Kate’s behavior often left her feeling like she was constantly being imitated, to the point where she believed jealousy was at play. “Kate always copies my outfits and mannerisms,” Meghan stated, adding, “She’s jealous of everything about me.”

From the beginning of Meghan’s entry into royal life, her fashion choices and public appearances attracted significant attention. As an actress and humanitarian, Meghan had developed a unique personal style that blended modern elegance with a sense of authenticity. Her wardrobe choices often made headlines, with her outfits inspiring trends and being scrutinized by fashion critics. It wasn’t long before observers began to notice similarities between Meghan’s outfits and those worn by Kate, who had already established herself as a style icon within the royal family.

Meghan revealed that this apparent mimicry didn’t go unnoticed by her. “It was strange at first,” she shared. “I would wear something for an event, and then a week later, I’d see Kate in something almost identical. It wasn’t just the clothes—she would adopt the same posture, the same way of holding her hands, even the way I’d smile or walk.” For Meghan, these small acts of imitation felt more than coincidental. Over time, she began to believe that Kate’s actions stemmed from a deeper sense of rivalry and insecurity.

“I don’t think it’s about the clothes or how we present ourselves in public,” Meghan said. “It’s about something deeper. I think she’s always felt this pressure to be perfect, and when I came into the picture, it upset that balance. Maybe she felt threatened in some way, and the only way she knew how to deal with it was to copy me.” Meghan’s comments suggest that the tension between the two women may have been fueled by the media’s constant comparison of them and their roles within the royal family.

What particularly stood out to Meghan was the sense that Kate’s actions weren’t rooted in admiration but in competition. “It’s not flattering when someone copies you out of envy,” Meghan said. “It feels like they want to take something from you, not celebrate what you bring to the table.” The Duchess of Sussex emphasized that this dynamic made it difficult for her to feel at ease around Kate, especially when she felt that the media and even royal aides were quick to downplay the tension.

Meghan’s revelations about Kate’s behavior add another layer to the already complex relationship between the two women. While the public has often speculated about their rivalry, Meghan’s words offer insight into how deeply these issues may have affected her personally. “I think it’s sad,” Meghan admitted. “We could have been friends, but instead, it turned into this strange competition. And honestly, I don’t have time for that.”

Despite the challenges, Meghan made it clear that she’s moved on from the situation. “I’m focused on my life, my family, and the causes that matter to me. If she wants to continue trying to outdo me, that’s her choice. But I don’t let it bother me anymore,” she said with a sense of resolve.

Meghan’s remarks may reignite public interest in the royal family’s internal dynamics, particularly the ongoing comparisons between her and Kate. Whether or not there is any truth to Meghan’s claims of jealousy and mimicry, her comments highlight the pressure both women have faced under the intense scrutiny of royal life. For Meghan, the experience has been a lesson in maintaining her sense of self despite the challenges, while for the world, it adds yet another chapter to the ongoing saga of the modern British monarchy.

Her charm and talent earned her a dedicated fanbase, but her life took a dramatic turn when she met Prince Harry. Their whirlwind romance captivated the world, leading to her integration into the British monarchy. Many celebrated this as a modern fairy tale, but Weinstein suggests an alternate narrative—that Meghan’s rise was not just about love, but a calculated move to climb the social and cultural ladder.

Weinstein’s allegations point to Meghan’s early Hollywood days, where ambition and networking shaped her career. Born in Los Angeles, Meghan was a determined young woman with big dreams. Though she wasn’t yet a household name, her focus on building connections and curating her public image hinted at a strategic approach to success. Did this strategy extend to her royal ambitions?

The romance between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle seemed too perfect, as though scripted for a Hollywood blockbuster. Insiders describe their connection as serendipitous, yet Weinstein’s claims suggest otherwise. He argues that Meghan may have seen marrying into royalty as a pathway to unparalleled opportunities. Was her attraction to Harry rooted in love, or did she view their union as a way to redefine her identity on a global scale?

Weinstein’s comments about Meghan being “just a common girl” have sparked debate. On one hand, they highlight her humble beginnings, contrasting with the elite world of British royalty. On the other, they question her intentions—was Meghan a trailblazer breaking norms or an outsider leveraging a system for personal gain?

Meghan Markle’s entry into the royal family was groundbreaking but met with resistance. Her Hollywood roots and modern outlook clashed with the monarchy’s strict traditions and protocols. This cultural dissonance became evident in her lifestyle choices, media presence, and eventual decision to step back from royal duties.

Weinstein’s claims suggest Meghan’s ambitions and calculated moves played a role in her royal journey. Some see her as a disruptor who modernized royal traditions, while others view her as a figure who failed to fully embrace royal responsibilities. The departure of Meghan and Harry from royal life further fueled these debates, as they sought independence and the opportunity to craft their narrative away from palace confines.

After stepping back from royal duties, Meghan and Harry embarked on a new chapter in California. Their focus shifted to causes like mental health, social justice, and environmental advocacy through their Archewell Foundation. Their ventures in podcasting, Netflix, and Spotify have redefined their public image, blending celebrity culture with philanthropy.

Critics argue that Meghan’s return to Hollywood reflects a calculated move to maximize her fame and financial opportunities. Supporters, however, view this as a courageous step toward independence, proving that reinvention is possible even under intense public scrutiny.

Queen Camilla “warns” Meghan Markle could become Queen of England in 5 years due to Kate’s frail health, with the whole of England rallying behind her.

The title “Princess” is traditionally bestowed upon women who marry into the British royal family. However, Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton have chosen not to adopt this title, making it relatively uncommon for modern royal women to do so. Kate Middleton acquired the same title upon her marriage to Prince William, but she too has refrained from using it.

The only royal who currently employs this title is Princess Michael of Kent, originally known as Baroness Marie-Christine von Reibnitz. Princess Michael embraced this title after her marriage to Prince Michael of Kent, who is a cousin of Queen Elizabeth, in 1978. This decision sets her apart from the more recent royal brides who have opted not to use the traditional “Princess” title.

The issue of racism and insensitivity towards cultural representations has been a topic of concern within the British Royal Family. In 2017, Princess Michael of Kent faced criticism for wearing a ‘Blackamoor’ brooch, a piece of jewelry that depicts an African or non-European male in a subservient role, during her initial meeting with Meghan Markle. This incident prompted Princess Michael to issue an apology for the perceived racist undertones.

Meghan Markle’s candid remarks on various subjects, including racism and politics, have sparked discussions about the potential consequences for members of the Royal Family. While there have been speculations about Meghan losing her royal titles due to her outspoken nature, no such action has been taken as of yet. It is worth noting that Meghan and Prince Harry chose to step away from their senior royal roles and relocate to the United States in 2020.

Despite being married to a prince, Meghan Markle will never officially hold the title “Princess Meghan.” This designation is reserved for those born directly into the Royal Family. Had she not been granted the Sussex title upon her marriage, Meghan would have been referred to as Princess Henry, following the traditional naming convention for wives of British princes.

Prince Harry’s return to Britain comes amidst an ongoing rift within the royal family. A royal expert has suggested that Harry must profoundly regret the divide he and Meghan have caused, leaving him with no one else to blame. The last time Harry spoke with his father, King Charles, was in February for a 30-minute conversation at Clarence House, shortly after Charles announced his cancer diagnosis.

While Harry attends the Invictus Games anniversary service at St Paul’s Cathedral, King Charles will be present at the first Buckingham Palace garden party of the year, just two miles away in London. This parallel event highlights the ongoing tensions within the royal family.

The memoir “Spare” by Prince Harry has made explosive revelations, shedding light on the ongoing rift within the British royal family. While the book’s release and the Coronation ceremony are scheduled to conclude around 6 pm, speculation arises about a potential reunion between Harry and the rest of the royals.

Royal expert Jennie Bond offers insightful perspectives on the situation. She suggests that Harry is likely feeling “rather contrite,” as his complaints may seem “trivial” in the face of the cancer battles his father, King Charles III, and sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, are currently facing.

In her interview with OK! magazine, Bond emphasizes that Harry is not inherently a “bad person” and was once regarded as one of the most popular young royals, known for his fun, modern, and warm demeanor. However, she adds that Harry must profoundly regret the rift he and his wife, Meghan Markle, have caused within the family, leaving him with no one else to blame.

Bond acknowledges that the path to reconciliation with Prince William and Kate Middleton is a “rocky” one, or perhaps even a “near impossible” endeavor, given the depth of the divide.

The upcoming visit of Prince Harry to the United Kingdom for the Invictus Games has sparked discussions among royal experts. Jennie Bond, a renowned royal expert, highlights that while the Duke of Sussex will be attending the event, his presence without any other member of the royal family in attendance will be a telling sign of the rift he and Meghan have caused within the family.

In a revelation that has left the United Kingdom in shock, Prince Harry has reportedly announced the results of a DNA test that confirm he is the biological son of Queen Camilla. The stunning news has sent shockwaves through the British public and the royal family, potentially rewriting the narrative of Prince Harry’s identity and shaking the very foundations of royal history.

The shocking discovery reportedly came to light after Prince Harry took a DNA test, which he had conducted privately following persistent rumors and personal doubts about his lineage. For years, speculation had swirled around Harry’s parentage, but the results of this test have unveiled a truth far more astonishing than anyone could have imagined: Harry is not the son of King Charles III, as was always believed, but rather the biological child of Queen Camilla.

The news of this revelation has reverberated throughout the UK, with many questioning how such a massive secret could have been kept hidden for so long. The implications of this discovery are vast, as it casts doubt on the very structure of the royal lineage. For decades, the public has assumed that Harry and his brother, Prince William, were the sons of Princess Diana and King Charles. Now, with this revelation, everything appears to have been turned upside down.

Royal insiders report that Harry made the announcement with a mix of shock and relief. Having lived under intense public scrutiny for most of his life, he was reportedly eager to finally uncover the truth about his parentage, particularly after years of public and media speculation surrounding his family background. However, even Harry himself could not have anticipated that his true mother would be Camilla, the woman who eventually became Queen alongside King Charles.

The British public has responded with a mixture of disbelief, outrage, and curiosity. Many are demanding answers as to how such a revelation could have remained hidden for so long. The royal family has yet to release an official statement, but sources suggest that the Palace is grappling with how to address this unprecedented turn of events.

The revelation also raises serious questions about Harry’s place within the royal family. If he is indeed the biological son of Queen Camilla, his role and standing within the monarchy could change dramatically. The royal family, already dealing with internal struggles and public relations challenges in recent years, now faces one of its most profound and far-reaching scandals in modern history.

For Harry, this discovery may bring some clarity to his personal struggles, but it also places him at the center of a royal upheaval. His relationship with his father, King Charles, and brother, Prince William, could be further strained by this revelation, as the dynamics of the family are likely to shift in response.

As the world waits for an official response from the royal family, one thing is clear: this revelation will have a lasting impact not only on Prince Harry but also on the future of the British monarchy. The truth about Harry’s parentage, hidden for so long, has now come to light in a way that will forever alter the course of royal history.

King Charles made a solo appearance at the Royal Variety Performance this evening.

His outing comes after it was announced that Queen Camilla would be missing the annual event due to an ongoing chest infection. In recent weeks, the Queen, 77, has reduced her official duties after becoming ill. It’s believed that Her Majesty is still suffering from lingering symptoms after contracting the infection.

Earlier today, a spokesperson for The King and Queen said: “Following a recent chest infection, The Queen continues to experience some lingering post-viral symptoms, as a result of which doctors have advised that, after a busy week of engagements, Her Majesty should prioritise sufficient rest.

King Charles attended the Royal Variety Performance alone ( 
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Samir Hussein/WireImage)

Queen Camilla was forced to pull out due to ill health ( 
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“With great regret, she has therefore withdrawn from attendance at tonight’s Royal Variety Performance. His Majesty will attend as planned.” While Her Majesty is unwell, King Charles has continued with his official duties, which he has eased in recent months following his cancer diagnosis.

Earlier this year, the King underwent a “corrective procedure” at a clinic in London to treat a benign enlarged prostate. Just one month later, in February, Buckingham Palace announced that during the procedure, cancer had been discovered – although it wasn’t prostate cancer. All public engagements were subsequently postponed. It’s believed that the King is still undergoing treatment following his diagnosis.

King Charles was seen laughing with Sir Elton John, a close friend of his former wife, Diana, Princess of Wales ( 
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POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Charles stopped treatment for ten days while heading to Australia with the Queen but upon his return, instantly resumed his treatment to fight the disease. Despite reducing her duties, the Queen joined her husband the King and her son-in-law, Prince William for diplomatic receptions on Tuesday night, while also attending events on Wednesday and Thursday.

It’s believed that the Queen will remain at Clarence House, her London residence, before she and His Majesty return to Sandringham, their private Norfolk estate. This week medics had been closely monitoring her recovery from the nasty chest infection and were taking each engagement as they came.

His Majesty waved to onlookers as he arrived at the Royal Albert Hall ( 
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Britain’s However, today, the Queen is said to be feeling under the weather today and a royal source told the Express that Her Majesty is “naturally disappointed to miss the evening’s entertainments, and sends her sincere apologies to all those involved, but is a great believer that ‘the show must go on’. She hopes to be back to full strength and regular public duties very soon.”This year, the Royal Variety Performance has two new hosts – Amanda Holden and Alan Carr have replaced Bradley Walsh hosted the event last year. The King will see performances from the likes of Britain’s Got Talent winner, Sydnie Christmas, the cast of Oliver! and Starlight Express.

Sir Elton John, a close friend of Princes William and Harry, alongside his husband David Furnish will also introduce the performance for The Devil Wears Prada, which features actress Vanessa Williams. Elsewhere, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Nemo and James Bay will also take to the stage.

Ellie Taylor will be delivering some comedy to the star-studded night ( 
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Elsewhere, Murder On The Dancefloor mega-star Sophie Ellis-Bextor offered a touch of glamour will her black gown ( 
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Meanwhile, to celebrate the 40th anniversary, Cirque Du Soleil will perform a world exclusive from their Las Vegas ‘Ovo’ show, while the English National Ballet will perform their routine of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from the production, Nutcracker. But it’s not just music and theatre that The King will be treated to.

Comedian Ellie Taylor will be cracking jokes out, with America’s Penn and Teller flying in for the special occasion. Deal Or No Deal host Stephen Mulhern will also impress the King with an illusion. Host Amanda Holden dazzled the crowd as she stepped out wearing a striking two piece outfit.

The Britain’s Got Talent judge channelled her inner emerald mermaid in a rather revealing crop-top which left very little to the imagination as she flaunted her gym-honed physique. Meanwhile, she completed her look with a flowing teal skirt, complete with netting adding to her mermaid look.

Prince Harry cried as he returned to the palace after five years

“I’m sorry, brother. Please forgive me,” Prince Harry cried as he returned to the palace after five years, kneeling at William’s feet. He accepted a new title… !!

In an emotional return to Buckingham Palace after a five-year hiatus from royal duties, Prince Harry has publicly reconciled with his brother, Prince William.

The heartfelt reunion took place amid ongoing tensions within the royal family, marked by a dramatic scene in which Harry knelt at William’s feet, expressing his remorse for past actions and asking for forgiveness.

This poignant moment has captured the attention of the nation and reignited discussions about family unity within the monarchy.

 

A Long-Awaited Return

Prince Harry’s journey back to the UK has been long anticipated, especially given the circumstances surrounding his departure in 2020.

The Duke of Sussex stepped away from royal life amidst a media frenzy and a series of public revelations about his struggles within the royal family.

His return was seen as a critical opportunity to mend relationships, particularly with William, who has been a key figure in the royal household.

Upon arriving at the palace, Harry’s emotional state was palpable.

Witnesses reported that he appeared visibly anxious but determined to make amends.

As he knelt before William, the words “I’m sorry, brother. Please forgive me” echoed through the palace halls, sending a powerful message of humility and love.

This moment not only highlighted Harry’s willingness to reconcile but also showcased the deep bond that still exists between the two brothers, despite the challenges they have faced.

Accepting a New Title

In addition to the emotional reunion, reports indicate that Harry has accepted a new title within the royal family, a significant gesture that reflects his desire to re-establish his connection with royal duties.

While the specifics of this title have yet to be disclosed, insiders suggest that it could involve charitable work or community engagement—areas in which Harry has always shown a strong interest.

This development is particularly notable given the ongoing public discourse about the relevance of the monarchy in modern Britain.

By embracing a new role, Harry appears to be signaling his commitment to the family legacy and his intention to contribute positively to the institution he once distanced himself from.

Public Reaction and Implications

The public reaction to this reconciliation has been overwhelmingly supportive, with many royal watchers expressing hope that this could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the royal family. Social media platforms have seen a surge of positive comments, with fans celebrating the emotional display and expressing their admiration for both brothers’ willingness to move forward.

However, there are also concerns about the potential implications of this reconciliation. Some critics argue that it may overshadow the ongoing issues within the royal family, particularly regarding mental health, media scrutiny, and the treatment of family members. As Harry and William navigate their renewed relationship, it will be crucial for them to address these broader concerns while rebuilding their personal bond.

Looking Ahead

As the dust settles on this dramatic reunion, the royal family faces an uncertain but hopeful future. Harry’s apology and acceptance of a new title indicate a desire for healing and unity, not just for the brothers but for the entire royal family. As the nation watches closely, many are left wondering: will this reconciliation pave the way for a more cohesive royal family moving forward?

In conclusion, Prince Harry’s emotional return to Buckingham Palace and his heartfelt apology to Prince William signify a pivotal moment in royal history. With a new title on the horizon, both brothers appear ready to embrace their roles within the monarchy, united by the shared love for their family and the responsibilities that come with it.

EPHRAIM HARDCASTLE: Why did the late Queen miss out on a Nobel Peace Prize for transforming and expanding the Commonwealth?

 

It remains an abiding mystery why the late Queen missed out on a Nobel Peace Prize for transforming and expanding the Commonwealth.

A senior courtier sheds some light on the subject, whispering that she didn’t want the honour.

While candidates don’t have to be consulted, Buckingham Palace was approached on more than one occasion by Commonwealth leaders ‘for guidance’ on nominating Her Majesty. They were politely told, ‘Thank you, but no thank you’.

It remains a mystery why the late Queen Elizabeth II never received a Nobel Peace Prize for transforming the Commonwealth

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A senior courtier has suggested that Buckingham Palace politely declined offers of the prize for Her Majesty

Watne Frydnes, the head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee. The Palace repeatedly told Commonwealth leaders ‘Thank you, but no thank you’ in response to requests to honour Her Majesty

The latest revelation from the new edition of Charles III, by my colleague Robert Hardman, is that the late Queen’s very last entry in her journal concerned Liz Truss. It prompts the question of who is going to plough through all the diaries Elizabeth II kept over 70 years?

The King has still not appointed his mother’s official biographer. Runners and riders include Andrew Roberts, Jane Ridley, Hugo Vickers and Sir Wiliam Shawcross, who wrote the offical account of the Queen Mother’s life. But surely cantering up from behind is Robert himself.

The BBC broke its own guidelines last week by using an all-female panel to host its US election night coverage.

A Broadcasting House mole tells that when the BBC signed off on Catriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Katty Kay as anchors it assumed Kamala Harris would sail into the White House and justify its celebration of the sisterhood. Like many others, Auntie was left with egg on her face.

Under pressure to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury over the Church of England child abuse scandal, Justin Welby was memorably left embarrassed by the Duchess of Sussex after she told Oprah Winfrey that he’d secretly married her and Harry three days before the royal wedding.

Refuting Meghan’s claim that the secret ceremony had taken place in their ‘backyard’, Welby insisted: ‘The legal wedding was on the Saturday. I signed the wedding certificate, which is a legal document, and I would have committed a serious criminal offence if I signed it knowing it was false.’

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The wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The Duchess of Sussex told Oprah Winfrey that she was secretly married three days ahead of the royal ceremony

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Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, refuted Meghan’s claims, insisting the legal wedding was on the Saturday

Comedian John Bishop, attempting to crack the lucrative US market, went the wrong way about it when he told a joke days after an assassination attempt on Donald Trump left him with an injured ear.

‘I said, “It’s great to be in Pennsylvania, particularly as you’ve just invented a new way of getting your ears pierced”. I’ve got to be honest, it split the room.’

Count yourself lucky that you lived to tell the tale, Jonno.

Despite signing up for national insurance 75 years ago, Dame Joan Collins has never received a pension.

She wails: ‘When the time came to receive my pension, the department had no record of me! I’ve never received a penny from the Government, much less the winter fuel allowance.’

But she does have a jumbo eiderdown (and husband) called Percy!

Meghan Markle’s Bold Challenge to Royal Tradition

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has long been a figure of fascination and controversy, especially as she continues to challenge some of the long-standing traditions of the British monarchy. Known for her commitment to authenticity and social justice, Meghan has broken from royal customs in both subtle and significant ways, drawing admiration and scrutiny alike. Her journey as a royal outsider has led her to forge a path that many see as modernizing the monarchy, while others view it as challenging the very institution itself.

A New Kind of Royal

Since marrying Prince Harry in 2018, Meghan has introduced a fresh approach to her role, departing from traditional royal protocols. From her advocacy for gender equality and racial justice to her active participation in various social causes, she has made it clear that her royal platform would be used to support issues she is passionate about. This commitment was evident even during her time as a senior royal and has only intensified since her and Prince Harry’s step back from royal duties in 2020.

Meghan’s impact can be seen in her public appearances and her statements, often prioritizing causes and speaking openly on topics that senior members of the monarchy typically avoid. Her openness about mental health, especially regarding her own struggles within the royal family, was a turning point, encouraging the public to see her as a modern woman, willing to be vulnerable in the face of traditional expectations.

A Family Departure: The Move to the United States

In early 2020, Meghan and Harry’s decision to relocate to California signaled one of the most radical breaks from royal tradition in recent history. Dubbed “Megxit” by the media, the move allowed the couple more independence to focus on their own projects and live a life outside the shadow of the monarchy. For Meghan, this step meant reclaiming her privacy and crafting a life centered on her values, away from the scrutiny that often accompanies royal life in the UK.

Their move also allowed them to pursue commercial ventures—something unheard of for working members of the British royal family. Through their Archewell Foundation and partnerships with major media platforms, the couple has channeled their influence into creating content focused on mental health, compassion, and community-building.

Her outspoken support for movements such as Black Lives Matter and her consistent emphasis on women’s rights have garnered both admiration and criticism. To Meghan, however, her advocacy aligns with the responsibilities of a royal title. She has argued that, in an evolving society, the monarchy must evolve, too, embracing diversity and progressive values.

The Legacy of Meghan’s Challenges

As Meghan Markle continues to challenge royal traditions, her actions raise questions about the future of the monarchy. Will her approach to using her platform inspire future royals to adopt similar stances on social issues? Or will the monarchy hold fast to its traditional roots?

Whatever the future holds, Meghan’s journey has undeniably left an indelible mark on the royal family, highlighting the tension between tradition and progress. Her willingness to defy expectations has positioned her as both a transformative figure and a lightning rod for debate, leaving the world watching as she continues to reshape the image of what it means to be a modern royal.