Prince Harry prepares for festive season alone as Meghan Markle gives their Christmas party a miss
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Prince Harry is getting into the holiday spirit, sending out invitations for a special Christmas event on December 10.
However, in a move that mirrors his recent public appearances, the Duke of Sussex will be attending the gathering solo, with wife Meghan Markle not expected to participate.
According to an email from Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity that supports bereaved children of military personnel, Harry will be hosting a virtual event to connect with members and spread holiday cheer, according to Marie Claire.
Prince Harry hosts solo Christmas party
The charity’s message explained that Prince Harry is keen to reach out personally, saying, "Prince Harry would like to jump on a call with as many of our members as possible to wish them all a Merry Christmas." As part of the festivities, five lucky participants will get the chance to speak directly with the Duke, asking pre-vetted questions and gaining insight into his own holiday traditions.
This virtual event marks another way Prince Harry continues to support Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a cause dear to him.
Earlier this year, the Duke of Sussex wrote a moving letter to the charity ahead of Remembrance Day 2024, sharing his personal understanding of the grief children face when they lose a parent. Having lost his mother, Princess Diana, at just 12 years old, Harry emphasized the importance of community and shared experiences in helping to heal emotional wounds.
In his letter, Harry shared, "We find strength in the love and memories left behind, and I have seen how communities like yours can offer deep comfort and healing." He went on to praise the charity’s mission, highlighting how the bonds forged through shared experiences help ease the pain of loss.
Prince Harry focuses on solo projects
As Prince Harry gears up for the upcoming Invictus Winter Games, his holiday plans remain a mystery, though it’s clear that his recent focus has been on solo endeavors from visiting Canada and Africa without Meghan Markle to taking on a busy week of initiatives in New York City. Harry's schedule has included engagements with organizations such as African Parks, The HALO Trust, The Diana Award, and Travalyst.
Meanwhile, Meghan has been spotted stepping out alone in California, signaling a shift in her own trajectory. Insiders have noted that the couple seems to be evolving a "twin-track approach" to their careers.
A friend of the couple revealed to People that they are both exploring separate paths while royal reporter Phil Dampier suggested that Harry may be looking to redefine his role. In an interview with The Sun, Dampier shared, "I suspect Harry has been feeling very much like a spare part. He wants more fulfilling roles for himself, so we may well be seeing more of him here.”