Although King Charles is expected to live for many more years, preparations for his funeral are already underway.
Much like Queen Elizabeth II, the 76-year-old monarch has been involved in laying out his own funeral plans, and reportedly, he has made a key decision.
Despite the current family estrangement, his son Harry and daughter-in-law Meghan may still receive “prominent” roles.
After Harry and Meghan’s 2021 royal exit, reconciliation with the Royal Family has seemed more and more unlikely. Harry has spoken publicly about his frustrations, sharing details in his memoir Spare and numerous interviews.
During a revealing BBC interview several months ago, Harry claimed that King Charles refuses to speak with him, adding that he hopes for a reconciliation.
The Royal Family has remained silent about Harry’s many public statements and allegations. Sources told Us Weekly in May that the royals feel “hurt and betrayed” by Harry’s behavior, with Prince William reportedly taking it hardest, feeling “more hurt than anything else.”
Operation Menai Bridge: Plans for King Charles’ Funeral
According to reports, the tension worsened when Meghan entered the royal family, though she is not being blamed for everything, and Harry shares responsibility.
King Charles is said to be heartbroken over missing out on seeing his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Since Harry has argued that his family lacks proper security to visit the UK, there appears to be little chance of them reuniting soon.
Harry’s bond with his brother, Prince William, is also in tatters, with the two reportedly not speaking for over two years. Some insiders have speculated that they may only reunite at their father’s funeral.
However, according to The Telegraph, Harry and Meghan may have to reconnect sooner. A new report suggests that they could receive significant roles during King Charles’ funeral.
After Queen Elizabeth II died, the detailed plan for King Charles — known as Operation Menai Bridge — was immediately activated. It sets out precisely what will happen upon the monarch’s passing, including the funeral arrangements, many of which mirror long-standing royal traditions.
Harry and Meghan’s Roles at the Funeral
At the moment of King Charles’s death, multiple officials and family members will be informed. The King’s private secretary will contact relatives, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet Secretary, the Privy Council Office, and other top ministers.
Then, an “official notification” will be released to the public, with prepared scripts for other announcements.
Meanwhile, the cabinet secretary will continue sending out notifications to senior ministers and civil servants, and flags at royal properties and government buildings will be lowered to half-mast.
King Charles has personally overseen the planning of his funeral and has reportedly insisted on incorporating eco-friendly, sustainable elements that reflect his lifelong environmental priorities.
Additionally, he wants only one day of royal mourning after the funeral, in contrast to Queen Elizabeth’s week-long royal mourning period.
Charles will also decide who attends the funeral. A new report in The Telegraph reveals that not only does he want Harry and Meghan present, but he intends for them to play important roles.
Participation in the Lying-in-State
Reportedly, Charles hopes to include Harry, Meghan, and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in the proceedings. Harry is expected to walk side-by-side with Prince William during the formal procession through London.
Furthermore, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be invited to take part in the family vigil as the King lies in state at Westminster Hall.
They will also receive prominent positions during the actual funeral service, signaling a possible attempt by Charles to bridge family divisions in his final farewell.
