Although King Charles may live for many more years, his funeral plans are already being finalized. Like Queen Elizabeth II, the 76-year-old monarch has been involved in preparing his own arrangements—and he has reportedly made a major decision: despite the ongoing rift, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could receive “prominent” roles.
While death is natural, it often leaves lasting wounds, and Charles is said to want his affairs in order—including his strained relationship with Harry. Reconciliation, however, still seems distant. Since leaving the Royal Family in 2021, Harry has spoken openly about his grievances in interviews and in his memoir, Spare. In a BBC interview, he claimed King Charles refuses to speak with him, though he said he would “love reconciliation.”
The Royal Family has issued no statements in response to Harry’s comments. A source told Us Weekly that the royals feel “hurt and betrayed,” with Prince William reportedly the most affected. Charles is also said to be heartbroken over not seeing his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet. With Harry citing security concerns, there is little sign the families will reunite soon. Harry and William reportedly haven’t spoken in more than two years.
Despite this, a new report from The Telegraph claims Harry and Meghan may receive key roles at King Charles’s funeral. Under “Operation Menai Bridge,” the plan outlining events after the king’s death, traditional protocols will unfold much like they did after Queen Elizabeth II’s passing. Charles has also requested eco-friendly elements in his funeral and limited the period of royal mourning to one day.
According to reports, Charles wants Harry, Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet included. Harry is expected to walk beside William during the procession in London and, along with Meghan, take part in the family vigil during the king’s lying-in-state at Westminster Hall—both receiving “prominent” roles in the funeral events.