The anticipated British “wedding of the year” had a notable absence as Prince Harry declined to join, yet Prince William was there to participate in Hugh Grosvenor’s regal wedding at Chester Cathedral in the north of England on Friday, performing usher duties.
Dressed in elegant black tailcoats over a stark white shirt, the Prince of Wales, aged 41, arrived at the cathedral and promptly went inside without acknowledging the onlookers outside.
Prince William exited a black Mercedes van with fellow attendees and entered the esteemed edifice straight away.
Regrettably, his partner, Kate Middleton, and his father, King Charles III, decided not to attend the impressive gathering due to receiving treatment for cancer.
The newly-weds invited more than 400 guests to the celebration. Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster, possesses a net worth close to $13 billion.
Post-ceremony, the invitees made a 15-minute journey to Eaton Hall, Grosvenor’s vast 11,000-acre family seat for the reception.
The Sunday Times acclaimed the event as a markedly noble celebration, despite it not being an actual royal wedding, attracting many from the UK’s most ancient and opulent aristocratic linages to congregate toward the north.
While the king acts as Grosvenor’s godfather, Grosvenor reciprocates by being a godfather to both Prince George, the eldest son of William and Middleton who is 10 years of age, and Archie, the 5-year-old son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Grosvenor, 33, has managed to remain in friendship with both William and Harry despite their well-publicised dispute.
The Duke of Sussex, who is 39 years old, despite receiving an invitation, decided not to attend, wanting to prevent any attention diversion from the wedding to a potential gathering with his brother.
According to an insider who spoke to Page Six in December, Harry called his friend to clarify his stance, and they both concurred that his absence was for the best.
Unwilling to cause any “awkward” situations between him and William, with whom he shares a strained relationship, Harry stayed away from the wedding. Their mutual understanding was fully grasped by the billionaire, as per the source.
At that moment, Harry had also not been informed about the health complications of his estranged sister-in-law and was apprehensive about a possible encounter between her and Markle.
If they had both attended, it would have marked the first meeting of Markle and Middleton since the mourning of Queen Elizabeth in September 2022.
Moreover, it has been mentioned before that the brothers have not engaged in conversation for over a year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did Prince Harry decline the wedding invitation?
Prince Harry decided not to attend Hugh Grosvenor’s wedding as he believed his presence, along with Meghan Markle’s, could potentially overshadow the event and create awkwardness due to his strained relationship with Prince William.
Did Prince Harry and Hugh Grosvenor discuss the decision for Harry not to attend?
Yes, Prince Harry personally contacted Hugh Grosvenor to explain his situation, and they mutually agreed that it would be best for Harry not to attend.
Were there any royal family members at Hugh Grosvenor’s wedding?
Prince William was in attendance and fulfilled the role of an usher at Hugh Grosvenor’s wedding. Kate Middleton and King Charles III did not attend the event.
Who are Hugh Grosvenor’s godchildren among the royal family?
Hugh Grosvenor is the godfather to Prince George, the son of Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as Archie, the son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
How is the relationship between Prince William and Prince Harry?
The relationship between Prince William and Prince Harry has been reportedly strained, and it’s been said that they have not spoken to each other for over a year.