Christmas is usually a joyful time for the Royal Family, but this year Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reignited drama just weeks before the holidays. Reports suggest the couple declined King Charles’ invitation to spend Christmas at Sandringham, amid renewed tensions following the trailer for their upcoming Netflix documentary.
Harry and Meghan once spent several Christmases with the royals, exchanging playful and even humorous gifts. During her first Christmas with the family, Meghan reportedly gave Prince William a novelty spoon engraved with “cereal killer,” a gift that stood out among the royals’ tradition of joke presents.
Initially, Meghan and William had a warm relationship. According to Finding Freedom, William welcomed Meghan kindly and expressed happiness for Harry, though he later voiced private concerns about how quickly the relationship was moving. Those concerns reportedly strained the brothers’ bond, especially as Harry took offense.
After marrying in 2018, the couple’s relationship with the Royal Family steadily deteriorated, eventually leading to their departure from royal duties. The fallout deepened following their Oprah interview and is expected to intensify again with their Netflix series and Harry’s upcoming memoir.
The newly released trailer hints at major revelations, with Harry saying he acted to “protect my family.” Its timing—just before Prince William and Kate’s Earthshot Prize trip to the U.S.—has drawn sharp criticism from royal commentators.
Royal experts believe the documentary is a key reason Harry and Meghan may be staying away from Christmas celebrations, as the family hopes to keep the holiday positive following Queen Elizabeth’s death. While the future remains uncertain, the documentary and memoir are expected to send fresh shockwaves through the monarchy.