Prince Philip’s Private Reaction to Harry and Meghan’s Wedding

The stoic and often brutally honest Prince Philip was never one to mince words, a trait that extended even to the most glamorous of royal occasions. A new memoir from a former royal staff member has unveiled the Duke of Edinburgh’s startlingly candid four-word verdict on the conclusion of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s lavish 2018 wedding ceremony, offering a fresh glimpse into the late patriarch’s unfiltered perspective.

The revelation comes from Grant Harrold, a former butler to King Charles III, in his upcoming book The Royal Butler. According to the excerpt, as the royal family processed out of St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle following the nuptials, Prince Philip turned to Queen Elizabeth II and uttered, “Thank f–k that’s over.” The remark, while jarring in its bluntness, is characteristic of Philip’s renowned dry wit and impatience with prolonged ceremony. It provides a humanizing, if somewhat irreverent, snapshot of a moment behind the polished public facade of the monarchy.

What Did Prince Philip Really Think of the Sussex Union?

While the quip could be interpreted as a sign of early disapproval, a deeper look at Philip’s recorded sentiments suggests a more nuanced view. Despite the very public fallout between the Sussexes and the institution, accounts indicate Prince Philip maintained a private sympathy for his grandson. During the initial “Megxit” crisis in 2020, reports from outlets like The Sun noted that Philip considered Harry a “good man” and expressed understanding of his desire to carve an independent path. He was famously quoted as saying he would “soon be out of it,” choosing to remain above the fray of the family discord.

However, the Duke did not refrain from all commentary. It is reported that following Harry and Meghan’s explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey, Prince Philip, though ailing, offered a piece of sharp, old-school royal advice: “Give TV interviews by all means, but don’t talk about yourself.” This underscores a fundamental generational clash between the traditional royal ethos of duty and silence, which Philip embodied, and the Sussexes’ modern approach of public vulnerability and storytelling.

The Lasting Impact of a Royal Persona

Prince Philip’s passing in 2021 marked the end of an era defined by his steadfast support of the Queen and his own unique, no-nonsense brand of service. These newly revealed anecdotes, rather than painting a picture of malice, simply reinforce the image of a man who valued efficiency and directness over pageantry. His relationship with Harry appears to have been complex, rooted in a familial bond that perhaps allowed for more bluntness than would be afforded to others.

The uncovering of Prince Philip’s private reaction to the Harry and Meghan wedding adds another layer to our understanding of the intricate dynamics within the House of Windsor. It highlights the very human moments of impatience and humor that occur even amidst global spectacles, reminding us that behind the crowns and titles, family interactions—complete with their awkwardness and candid remarks—are universal. The late Duke’s legacy continues to be defined by his unwavering authenticity, for better or worse.

Must Know

What did Prince Philip say about Meghan Markle?
While Prince Philip’s specific opinions on Meghan Markle were largely kept private, a new memoir reveals he bluntly expressed relief when her wedding to Prince Harry concluded. Other reports suggest he advised against the couple’s personal tell-all interview approach, consistent with his traditional views on royal conduct.

How did Prince Philip get along with Prince Harry?
By most accounts, Prince Philip shared a close relationship with his grandson, Prince Harry. During the Megxit transition, Philip was reportedly sympathetic to Harry’s desire for independence, referring to him as a “good man,” though he maintained a distance from the ensuing public controversy.

Was Prince Philip at Harry and Meghan’s wedding?
Yes, Prince Philip attended the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at St. George’s Chapel in May 2018. He was photographed arriving alongside Queen Elizabeth II and participating in the formal proceedings before making his now-famous quip after the ceremony.

What was the royal family’s reaction to the wedding?
The public reaction from the royal family was overwhelmingly positive and supportive on the day of the wedding. However, the subsequent years and the couple’s decision to step down from royal duties created a significant rift, the full details of which remain largely private.