Meghan Markle won't be attending the coronation on May 6 with Prince Harry.
While their son Prince Archie is turning four that day, it's clear to most observers that this won't have been the only factor in the Duchess of Sussex' decision to stay back in California.
For royal commentator Afua Hagan, the duchess is likely trying to dodge the intense and aggressive media scrutiny she faces every time she sets foot in the U.K.
"That has got to be quite frustrating and annoying, given she is just living her life and going about her business supporting her husband," Hagan told Express.
"She doesn’t want to put herself through all that because it’s not worth it."
For Hagan, the duchess' decision not to come puts her back in the driver's seat of her own life.
"She has taken away the ability for people to criticize what she’s wearing, what she’s doing, or not getting in a car the right way," the expert said.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
"People won’t be able to mock her.
"That is part of the reason she didn’t want to give them the sideshow. She didn’t want to let them tear strips off her.
"I think that played a huge part in her decision."
While Hagan thought that Harry and Meghan would end up attending the coronation together, other commentators have said that this arrangement was the best one for everyone involved.
"I think this was always the best compromise, particularly given Archie's fourth birthday, that he should come and Meghan should not," royal expert Jennie Bond previously said.
In the meantime, speculation is rife as to what the future holds for the duchess from now on. Royal author Robert Jobson believes that this signals Meghan will no longer be attending royal events at all. Speaking of Prince Harry's attendance, Jobson said, "the fact his wife is not attending means it is now highly unlikely we will ever see her attend an official or Palace event again—apart from maybe the King’s funeral."
Other experts have hypothesized that Meghan will use the extra time from not traveling to the U.K. to relaunch her career, perhaps by reviving her blog The Tig or by writing her own memoir. We shall see!
Iris Goldsztajn is a London-based journalist, editor and author. She is the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her work has appeared in the likes of InStyle, Cosmopolitan, Bustle and Shape. Iris writes about everything from celebrity news and relationship advice to the pitfalls of diet culture and the joys of exercise. She has many opinions on Harry Styles, and can typically be found eating her body weight in cheap chocolate.
-
23 Pretty Transitional Pieces to Shop From an Under-the-Radar Sale
They're ideal for this in-between period.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
This Week's Best On-Sale Picks Include Designer Sneakers and Spring Workwear
It's time to build up your warm-weather office wardrobe.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
Cardi B Says It’s Not Easy to Find Looks That Fit Her Body Type: “This Body Is Not Meant for a Size 2”
Cardi and her stylist, Kollin Carter, talked about opening up doors for women of different body types through their example as a team.
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
British Royal Lady Gabriella Windsor's Husband Has Died at 45
Lady Gabriella is King Charles' second cousin.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
George, Charlotte and Louis Will Be Laden With Gifts as Prince William Returns From New York
He was handed so many souvenirs for the little ones.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Makes Sure to "Treat George and Charlotte as Equals," Body Language Expert Says
I should hope so!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Isn't "A Workaholic Like His Father," Royal Expert Claims
He's got more of a work-life balance.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Princess Kate's New "Signature" Gesture? The Stealthy "Bum Pat" to Prince William
Love this for her.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince Harry Says His "Spirit Is Renewed" as He Attends the Warrior Games for Wounded Service Members in San Diego
The Games inspired his Invictus concept.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Not Expected to Invite Prince Harry to His Coronation, Friend Claims
That doesn't sound good.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
We Finally Know Where the Earthshot Prize 2023 Will Take Place
Let's go!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published