Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Set the Record Straight on Whether They'll Attend the Diana Charity Event
Although a reunion seems unlikely in September, next year will mark the 30th anniversary of Diana's death.
A royal reunion between Prince William and Prince Harry was in the cards as the Diana Award Charity approached on September 18; it was speculated that the two might come face-to-face. The Daily Mail had previously reported that the Sussexes are expected to attend the gala dinner at Raffles Hotel for the legacy event honoring Princess Diana. However, Harry and Meghan Markle have now issued a statement that clarifies their agenda and also marks a significant distance from the plans chalked out by Prince William.
A Sussex spokesperson exclusively told the Daily Express: "Despite the Daily Mail’s reporting to the contrary, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are not scheduled to attend a Diana Award event at Raffles Hotel, OWO London, on September 18. Facts matter. Accuracy matters. Apparently, neither made the guest list for this particular story." Another source revealed that the Duke may opt to write a letter or record a video message instead of attending the event, as he currently resides in the Cotswolds during term time.
He is also scheduled to attend the WellsChild awards later this month. However, William will most likely skip the gala if his estranged brother appears, according to a source reported by The Mail on Sunday. "You won’t see the two men attending an event together any time soon - especially if Meghan is there," the source explained. Meanwhile, the Duke and the Duchess' confirmation of their absence may lead the Prince of Wales to reconsider his decision about attending. Although a reunion seems unlikely in September, next year will mark the 30th anniversary of Diana's death, and The Diana Award charity is planning significant commemorative events.
Harry and William have supported their mother's charity since its inception in 1999, previously paying tribute together. In 2007, they organized a tribute concert at Wembley Stadium featuring Diana's favorite artists. Ten years later, they toured the memorial White Garden at Kensington Palace. However, they commemorated their late mother together in 2021, unveiling a statue of Diana in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace. In 2024, William delivered a brief speech at the awards ceremony and presented the awards to the recipients, while Prince Harry later video-called the winners. In June, the Prince of Wales made special efforts to meet supporters and recipients of the Diana Award in East London, highlighting their commitment to carry on the legacy through compassion and determination.
Meanwhile, the Duke also supported the cause and visited the charity in the UK last September, reflecting on their mother's influence. The Sussexes have relatively kept a low profile ever since landing in the UK. Although the Prince and Princess of Wales were informed of their arrival, there have been no public signs of reconciliation between the two royal brothers.
