King Charles’ Funeral Plans Include ‘Prominent Roles’ For Harry And Meghan

Though the British monarch’s health is not officially critical, insiders claim his cancer is incurable.

However, despite the royal rift, King Charles reportedly wishes to reconnect with Harry, Meghan Markle, and their children, who are believed to be included in his funeral plans.

According to The Telegraph, King Charles has made a conscious effort to include not only Harry but also Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, and their children, Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 3, in his long-term funeral arrangements.

Sources indicate that the Sussex family is considered integral to these plans. Harry is expected to walk alongside his brother, William, during the formal processions through London.

Both he and Meghan will be invited to participate in the family vigil during the monarch’s lying-in-state at Westminster Hall, and they will be given “prominent roles” during the funeral at Westminster Abbey.

Provisions have also been made to ensure that Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are included in the service at the Abbey, as well as the committal ceremony at St George’s Chapel in Windsor, should they choose to attend.

Though there is no indication that the King’s health is a cause for concern or that his reign is nearing its end, planning for major royal ceremonies, including funerals, is typically done many years in advance.

These plans are shaped and refined over time through detailed discussions with senior royal aides, security officials, military leaders, and representatives of the church.

The King’s funeral will follow the framework established under Operation London Bridge, the same codename used for previous monarchs. However, Charles has made several personal adjustments to reflect his own beliefs and values.

Notably, his deep commitment to environmental causes will be acknowledged through the inclusion of eco-conscious, sustainable elements throughout the ceremony, where possible.

Another key change lies in the mourning period. Unlike Elizabeth II’s funeral, where royal mourning continued for a week beyond the service, Charles has reportedly opted to align the royal mourning period with the national one.

This will begin at the moment of his passing and conclude on the day of the funeral, expected to be held 10 or 11 days later.

As with all major royal events, thorough logistical planning is already in place to prepare for every possible scenario surrounding the King’s passing, including the location of his death.

Protocols have been carefully outlined to ensure that, wherever the King may be, his coffin can be transported with dignity and precision back to Buckingham Palace.

Still, Palace aides have emphasized that the “King’s funeral plans had not been finalized and cautioned against speculation,” noting that the funeral plans remain subject to change and refinement over time.

At the same time, there are growing concerns about the King’s condition. Though he has been receiving treatment for cancer over the past year, recent reports suggest the illness may be more severe than publicly acknowledged.

According to royal correspondent Camilla Tominey, Charles is believed to be living with an incurable form of cancer.

Writing in The Telegraph, she noted that “The talk now is that he may die ‘with’ cancer, but not ‘of’ cancer following a rigorous treatment program.”

Plans to mark the King’s 80th birthday in 2028 are also reportedly up in the air, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding his long-term health.

Talks of reconciliation between King Charles and Harry have been quietly gaining momentum. However, much of the narrative has emerged publicly from Harry’s side, often through emotional and revealing television interviews where his frustration and hurt have been laid bare.

In contrast, Buckingham Palace has remained largely silent, with royal aides opting not to address the rift directly. Aside from the occasional off-the-record comment, the Palace has maintained a careful distance, preferring to keep such personal matters out of the spotlight.

Privately, however, Charles is said to hold onto hope for a renewed bond with his second son, and perhaps, one day, a meaningful connection with his grandchildren in California.

Looking ahead, potential moments for reconnection may arise. The 2027 Invictus Games, set to take place in Birmingham, could provide a natural setting for a reunion, as might the King’s milestone 80th birthday celebrations the following year.