Why Meghan Markle the Duchess of Sussex is not at the King’s Coronation

The Coronation of King Charles takes place today, marking one of the most historic events in many Britons’ lifetimes. As the eyes of the world are watching, around 2,000 people are expected to be in attendance to witness the historic event at Westminster Abbey in London.

The ceremony is due to start at 11am and Charles and Camilla, Queen Consort, will be joined by foreign monarchs, politicians, world leaders, celebrities and everyday heroes all there to witness the crowning of the nation’s new king and queen. Among the politicians at the coronation will be Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his predecessors, Scotland’s new first minister Humza Yousaf and French President Emmanuel Macron.

President Joe Biden will not be at the coronation but will be represented by his wife, First Lady Jill Biden. Celebrity guests include singer-songwriter Lionel Richie, while reports suggest David and Victoria Beckham will also attend, as will Ant and Dec as Goodwill Ambassadors for The Prince’s Trust.

READ MORE: King's Coronation day - full list of key timings and schedule

Almost all members of the royal family will be at the Abbey, including many of Camilla’s relatives. Prince William, the heir to the throne, and his eldest son George have been given official roles in the ceremony.

There had been speculation around whether The Duke and Duchess of Sussex would attend after the prolonged controversy surrounding their relationship with the royal family. Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle stepped back as working royals in January 2020 after suffering intense media and public scrutiny.

They ultimately relocated to California where they now live with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Since their controversial