King Charles has made a deliberate and symbolic decision by choosing Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, to represent the British royal family at the funeral of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who recently passed away at the age of 100.
Scheduled for Thursday in the United States, the funeral is a significant occasion, and the royal family's choice of representation reflects a carefully considered strategy. Prince Edward’s steady and dignified approach to royal duties makes him a fitting emissary for such a solemn event.
This decision, however, has reportedly not sat well with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who may have viewed their residence in America as a natural advantage for attending. Despite their proximity, King Charles opted against involving the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, a move that speaks volumes about the current dynamics within the royal family. Proximity, after all, is not the only factor; trust, decorum, and a commitment to the monarchy's values play a far more critical role.
Prince Edward’s increasing prominence within the royal family has been a quiet but significant development. Since assuming the title of Duke of Edinburgh, he has taken on greater responsibilities with professionalism and grace. In contrast, Harry and Meghan’s estrangement from the royal fold and their penchant for airing grievances in the media have rendered them unsuitable for sensitive royal duties. It’s worth noting that their public criticisms and controversial projects, such as their Netflix series and memoirs, have not endeared them to the institution they once represented. Actions, as the saying goes, have consequences.
The decision also reflects practical considerations. King Charles is reportedly dealing with health issues, while Prince William is occupied with Princess Catherine’s birthday celebrations. This left the responsibility to Prince Edward, who has consistently demonstrated his reliability and respect for the monarchy’s traditions. His attendance ensures that the British royal family will be represented with the dignity that an event honoring President Carter demands.
President Carter, remembered for his integrity, humility, and tireless humanitarian work, represents values that align with the monarchy’s public image. Sending a representative who embodies those values, rather than individuals mired in personal controversies, is both logical and respectful. Critics have noted that Meghan Markle’s history of prioritizing personal interests over diplomatic decorum—such as her refusal to meet President Trump during her tenure as a working royal—might have made her an unsuitable choice for this solemn occasion.
Had Harry and Meghan maintained their roles within the royal family, their presence at the funeral might still have been fraught with complications. Their history of controversy, ranging from allegations of bullying to public complaints about their royal experience, would likely overshadow the solemnity of the event. The prospect of the Sussexes using such an occasion as a PR opportunity—complete with dramatic photo ops and emotional social media posts—would only detract from the funeral's respectful tone.
In contrast, Prince Edward’s quiet professionalism ensures that the focus remains where it belongs: on honoring President Carter’s legacy. His attendance underscores the royal family’s commitment to maintaining decorum and avoiding unnecessary drama. Meanwhile, the Sussexes are reportedly stewing in their California mansion, possibly contemplating ways to remain relevant in the public eye. Speculation abounds that they may attempt to tie themselves to President Carter’s legacy through statements, press releases, or even a podcast episode, but such gestures are unlikely to resonate authentically.
King Charles’s decision to send Prince Edward to this high-profile event is a testament to his commitment to preserving the monarchy’s reputation. In a time when public trust in institutions can be fragile, having a representative with class and respect for tradition is crucial. The late President Carter deserves to be honored by a figure of equal humility and dignity, a standard Prince Edward admirably upholds. As for Harry and Meghan, their continued sidelining from royal responsibilities speaks for itself—actions, indeed, have lasting repercussions.
