Prince Harry lands in the UK for King Charles’ coronation

Prince Harry has journeyed from California to London, as he is set to attend his father, King Charles’ royal coronation on Saturday, May 6. He left his wife, Meghan Markle, and their two young children in the United States.

The coronation ceremony will be held at Westminster Abbey at 11 am local time, followed by a procession of the king’s closest family members.

The long wait for the RSVP

Harry’s coronation attendance was first announced on April 12 by Buckingham Palace, after weeks of silence as the prince and his wife deliberated whether they should attend.

Ultimately, the 38-year-old prince decided to go solo to the ceremony, and his wife would stay home and care for their children, who aren’t yet old enough to attend a formal royal public appearance. Additionally, it is Prince Archie’s birthday on May 6, he will be turning four, and celebrating with his sister, Princess Lilibet, who is almost two years old.

“The Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet,” the palace said at the time.

Meanwhile, a source close to the Sussexes told People Magazine that Markle’s plans were a modest celebration for her son.

“It’s going to be a low-key party at home,” the source said. “They’ll have friends around them and Meghan’s mom, Doria [Ragland]. Meghan will definitely have support that weekend.”

Why did Prince Harry decide to go to the coronation?

Prince Harry felt it was important to go to the family event to support his dad as he was going through this significant turning point in his life. The king, in turn, said he is “pleased” to have his youngest son present for the big day.

Whether this will lead to wider reconciliation is yet to be determined.

“At this point, it’s become so personal,” an inside source said. “Maybe what they wanted wasn’t achieved, but at the end of the day, he’s going there to support his dad.”