Queen’s ‘fragile’ condition sheds doubt on Harry and Meghan’s Christmas visit
The Queen is reportedly planning a quieter Christmas this year due to her declining health
The Queen may not be able to host her traditional Christmas party this year due to her worsening health issues, royal insiders have revealed.
- The Queen may not be well enough to host the traditionally extravagant Royal Family Christmas this year, say royal insiders.
- The Queen is reportedly planning a quiet celebration for the festive event, shedding questions over the attendance of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at this year's gathering.
- In other royal news, Princess Anne claims 'Camilla will never be a true queen' as they quarrel about titles.
It’s no secret that the Queen has had a difficult year, having lost Prince Philip in April amidst the ongoing family rift between her younger relatives.
If that wasn’t stressful enough, she’s been forced to grieve the tremendous loss of her royal consort husband without the usual support of her loved ones, thanks to the pandemic’s travel restrictions and social distancing practices.
The news that Meghan and Harry are to baptize Lilibet in an Episcopal ceremony in California rather than at Windsor Castle is expected to have come as yet another blow for the 95-year-old monarch, whose health has reportedly gone downhill in recent months. Having still not met her great-granddaughter, the Queen will likely be itching to gather the Royal Family together soon rather than later.
It was widely reported that Meghan and Harry were to bring Lilibet home for Christmas for their first trip as a family since they emigrated to the US in early 2020, but it looks like this reunion may no longer be on the cards.
The Queen is said to be planning a low-key celebration for the festive season this year, in replacement of the extravagant bash she traditionally hosts at Sandringham House.
“The Queen has suffered a lot this year, including the death of her beloved husband,” a royal insider told the Sun. "She is becoming a little less resilient and needs a little more help—although she is doing well for somebody of her age.”
Sign up for the woman&home newsletter
Sign up to our free daily email for the latest royal and entertainment news, interesting opinion, expert advice on styling and beauty trends, and no-nonsense guides to the health and wellness questions you want answered.
With just over half a year to go until the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, royal assistants have been doing everything they can to keep the monarch’s energies up. As well as ensuring she avoids steps and cobbles, they will now always drive her vehicles as close as possible to venues.
The Queen was spotted using a walking stick at Westminster Abbey last week, further fueling the rumors that her mobility is on the decline.
"Her courtiers have noticed the Queen becoming more weary and perhaps more fragile than she was—and who could be surprised?" the insider added.
It's hoped that Her Majesty will feel better with some small lifestyle changes, including the removal of one unhealthy habit from her routine. The Queen has been urged by doctors to quit alcohol in her ninetieth decade, which means saying goodbye to her daily dry martinis once and for all. It also marks the end of her relationship with high-end champagne, which she reportedly enjoys on occasion before bedtime.
Hailing from the lovely city of Dublin, Emma mainly covers the Royal Family and the entertainment world, as well as the occasional health and wellness feature. Always up for a good conversation, she has a passion for interviewing everyone from A-list celebrities to the local GP - or just about anyone who will chat to her, really.
Emma holds an MA in International Journalism from City, University of London, and a BA in English Literature from Trinity College Dublin.
-
It's not just hot flushes: Dentists reveal the little-known link between menopause and tooth pain
Dentists reveal the link between menopause and tooth pain, the changes you can expect in menopause and how to treat issues like sensitivity, dry mouth, and more
By Kat Storr Published
-
Vera Black Ice: What happened to Faye in season 8 episode 2?
Vera season 8 is currently being shown again and Black Ice is one of the most heart-wrenching episodes with so many details to unravel
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
32 candid photos that capture the real Prince Philip - from having a belly laugh to meeting celebrities
We look back at some of Prince Philip's funniest (and most heartwarming) moments, from sharing a joke with other royals to getting very into sporting events
By Elena Kiratzi Published
-
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s sleep divorce might sound radical but it’s right on trend today
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip reportedly slept separately and this is said to be something the 'upper class' have 'always' done
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
Prince Philip’s royal tradition Princess Anne chose to uphold with her children - but none of her brothers did!
Prince Philip’s royal tradition was something his sons chose not to continue with their children but Princess Anne's kids enjoyed it
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
The sweet tradition Prince George, Princess Charlotte and their cousins might continue this year
The young royals could carry on a tradition that goes back to Prince Philip this summer
By Jack Slater Published
-
We love Queen Elizabeth II's sassy response to a rather rude remark reportedly made by Prince Philip
The Queen was known for her quick wit
By Robyn Morris Published
-
How George could follow in Charles's footsteps with special honor for little brother Prince Louis when he is King
Prince George could follow in King Charles's footsteps and give his brother a special honor
By Caitlin Elliott Published
-
August Brooksbank looks just like Prince Harry in latest sweet snap shared by Princess Eugenie
Princess Eugenie posted a sweet picture of her son August
By Robyn Morris Published
-
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were 'hoping' Buckingham Palace would announce Archie and Lilibet's new titles before they did
Harry and Meghan were reportedly hoping that the Palace would 'jump the gun' says royal expert
By Robyn Morris Published