Harry Skips Westminster Wedding Amid Family Tensions

Prince Harry was notably absent from his close friend, the Duke of Westminster's wedding on Friday. The lavish ceremony, held at Chester Cathedral, was attended by Prince William, but not his brother. This absence came as a surprise to many, considering the close bond between Harry and the groom.

Reports suggest that Harry chose to stay in California with Meghan Markle to avoid overshadowing the couple's big day. The added awkwardness of interacting with his estranged family, with whom his relationship has become strained since stepping down as a senior royal in 2020, likely played a role in his decision.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams expressed sadness over the Duke and Duchess of Sussex missing "the wedding of the year," highlighting the deep rift within the Royal Family. He believed that Harry and Meghan would never have accepted an invitation, knowing that William would be present and that their attendance would create a media frenzy.

The week of the wedding, PEOPLE confirmed that Harry was invited but declined, acknowledging the difficulty of his attendance. The outlet reported an understanding between the two friends, recognizing the challenges involved.

Hugh Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster, is close to several members of the Royal Family, serving as godfather to both Prince George and Prince Archie, and being the godson of King Charles. Prince William acted as an usher at the wedding, which was briefly disrupted by Just Stop Oil protestors attempting to spray powder paint at the wedding party as they left the cathedral.

The protestors, identified as Polly, a 73-year-old care worker, and Sheila, a 69-year-old former NHS nurse, were quickly apprehended by police. Hugh and Olivia will now reside at Eaton Hall, the billionaire's home near Chester. Hugh, one of the UK's wealthiest landowners, was known as Britain's most eligible bachelor before his marriage.