The Duke & Duchess of Sussex are officially not going to Sandringham for Xmas

Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex attend the 91st Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey in London, Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019.

It’s been said, many times, that Princess Diana’s strength was tactics, not strategy. She was a brilliant short-term tactical thinker, but the last year of her life saw her free and divorced, yet largely unhappy and adrift because her tactical moves had alienated the monarchy and the establishment, and she was largely persona non grata within the family. It feels like… Harry is really his mother’s son. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have confirmed – through their spokesperson – that they are not planning to spend Christmas with the Queen and the royal family. This was the rumor for days, and here is the confirmation:

It’ll be a non-royal Christmas for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are skipping the annual holiday festivities at Sandringham — including their public walk to church on Christmas morning — with Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the royal family.

“The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are looking forward to extended family time towards the end of this month,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Wednesday. “Having spent the last two Christmases at Sandringham, Their Royal Highnesses will spend the holiday this year, as a new family, with the Duchess’ mother Doria Ragland. This decision is in line with precedent set previously by other members of the Royal Family, and has the support of Her Majesty The Queen.”

The palace didn’t specify where they will be ringing in the holiday, but a source tells PEOPLE that they will not be spending it in Meghan’s hometown of Los Angeles, where Doria lives.

[From People]

Again, because I know there will be screaming, I understand their decision. I wouldn’t want to hang out with the Duke of York over Christmas either. Nor would I want to spend loads of time with the people (William, Charles and the courtiers) who have been throwing me under the bus repeatedly over the past year. Plus, the logistics are a nightmare – Sandringham is always a full house over the holidays, and the Sussexes wouldn’t want to stay with the Cambridges at Anmer Hall again, so how would that even work? Shoved into some back bedroom in one of the other cottages? Who knows.

Now, all that being said, this is a pattern. The Sussexes didn’t make the trek to Balmoral over the summer. Now they’re skipping Sandringham Christmas. They’re skipping a lot of Christmas-adjacent royal events. They’ll spend weeks in LA. Maybe all of those shady stories were right and Harry and Meghan really are plotting an overseas move. If they’re not, then they really don’t even give a f–k about the optics. I’ll say the same thing that I said about their move to Frogmore Cottage: it looks like they’re running away. It looks like William, Charles, the Queen, the courtiers and the media’s joint hate campaign worked and now the Sussexes are adrift.

Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex attend the 91st Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey in London, Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019.

Photos courtesy of Avalon Red and Backgrid.

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313 Responses to “The Duke & Duchess of Sussex are officially not going to Sandringham for Xmas”

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  1. Kittycat says:

    So happy the Sussexes will be with Doria over the holidays.

    Great way to start 2020.

    • Sarah says:

      Agreed. Good for them. It’s not “running away” if it’s the direction you want to go.

      • Toot says:

        Exactly.

      • Jaime Brown says:

        Agreed. I used to consider any withdrawal from a situation as cowardly, but as I’ve gotten older I’ve realized that’s not true. If you have a full understanding of the situation that you’re in, and you know there’s no real way to “win”, then there’s nothing wrong with moving on to another path. There’s nothing gained from forcing yourself (and loved ones) to suffer just so you can prove a point to a bunch of assholes. He’ll never be king, they’ll never be poor or without resources, so why shouldn’t they remove themselves and live a life that’s best for them.

      • Carrie says:

        Exactly right. I’ve made this decision myself several times over my life. It was to choose healthier and happier people and places to be with and around. When you’re being judged negatively and ostracized, subjected to harmful attitudes and sorrowful encounters, it’s imperative to get to safety. No b.s. this is the wisest decision for them. I’m happy for Harry and Meghan and hope Doria is coming to them to spend holidays in England.

    • Bella DuPont says:

      Maybe they just need some fresh air, away from all the toxicity and envy.

    • Susannah says:

      Agreed! Doria gets to spend her first Christmas as a grandma with her only grandson and Archie with his only grandma. It’ll be so much more relaxing and fun than dealing with all the protocol and clothing changes that you have to adhere to if you spend Christmas at Sandringham.

      • Fabuleuse says:

        It would be best for Doria to go spend Xmas with her daughter at Frogmore cottage. There’s no need at all to leave the UK. The Cambridges have skipped Xmas with the Queen to spend it with the Middletons. The Middleton stayed at Anmer Hall. This will be a huge PR disaster. Such a shame since they’ve been doing so well lately.

      • Lex says:

        He has another grandma in Camilla….

    • RoyalBlue says:

      Agreed. Don’t think of it as they don’t want to spend time with the royal family, think of it as they really want to spend time with her loving family and friends. They really want a warm and loving environment. I support their choices. Optics is what kills people’s lives. That’s why I don’t live my life worrying about what others think.

      • Originaltessa says:

        Yes, this. Meghan just had a baby. She wants that first Christmas to be warm and loving with people who want them to be there. My mom wouldn’t miss a Christmas with me or my babies, so I can see Doria being really pleased. Hope they have a great holiday.

      • Valiantly Varnished says:

        Yes to all of this. And same. I stopped caring what people think of me a loooong time ago. And I’ve been happier and more fulfilled for it.

      • Nahema says:

        Most of us can not worry about what other people think, if we can overcome that within ourselves. It’s a bit different when you’re a celebrity and you’re entire status and career is built around what people think.

      • Abena Asantewaa says:

        @Fabuleuse, you want Doria to have her Xmas at Frogmore, beacuse The Middletons had theirs at Amner Hall but LA is not just down the road. Damn optics, they should do what is right for them, they have TQ’s blessings. For 2years they’ve had Xmas in Sandringham, it’s now Doria’s tirn, surely a mother counts in this equation!

    • Lummy dee says:

      Looks like Hillary Clinton met with Prince William today according to Gert Royals twitter handle.

    • Abena Asantewaa says:

      You should all read an opinion piece by Kate Halfpenny on this matter. Will see if I can post the link

  2. Pixelated says:

    I mean…I would do the same in their situation.

    • Oh No says:

      Calling it now, the Cambridges bring 2/3 kids

      • Toot says:

        Thought that too. At least possibly George.

      • notasugarhere says:

        It may depend on the Queen. She’s said to dislike any rambunctiousness from kids in church. Royal kids aren’t taken to church publicly with her until they are guaranteed to sit still the whole time. If W&K bring any kids with them, expect to see Nanny Maria snuck in a side door again.

      • Lorelei says:

        The kids could do the walk, though, and then be quickly taken home by Maria. It’s the walk that generates interest + photos.

      • Silas says:

        Or we’ll get pictures of the kids watching William take part in that soccer game that happens or some kind of “candid” of them to really drive home the Cambridges being a part of the royals’ Christmas. Maybe the other Middletons will also be in the shots.

  3. Becks1 says:

    I admit I’m surprised. I knew this was possible but didn’t think it was probable, you know? I don’t blame them for not wanting to go to Sandringham for a variety of reasons, but it feels like it would have been an easy PR move for all involved (which maybe is part of why they want to skip?)

    I do believe though that the queen has said okay to this and is fine with it, and considering that other significant royals have missed Christmas there in recent years, it probably doesn’t mean as much as people think it does.

    • Becks1 says:

      I’ll add that I’m surprised how invested people are in this – not just us, we’re invested in everything royal related, LOL – but I was seeing tweets from CNN about this yesterday. Nothing else important happened yesterday, news-wise?

      • Le4Frimaire says:

        CNN? This is international news up there with the impeachment hearings, coups in Bolivia and Venice flooding, as well as the UK having an upcoming election with its own tensions. But Meghan wanting to have her baby boy to spend Christmas with his Grandma is getting all the heat. P.s. hope they go to Hawaii or further afield. Bora Bora anyone?😁

      • Maevo says:

        It’s because the royal reporters get all pissed that they won’t have pictures from the walk to generate clicks and content on their sites.

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @Le4Frimaire, You forgot to list BREXIT!

    • bonobochick says:

      Yep. It was in BP’s statement that Omid tweeted yesterday that the Queen was fine with them celebrating elsewhere as well as explicitly stating other Royals have previously skipped out on Christmas at Sandringham.

      I don’t think there is anything for folks to handwring over re: the Sussexes spending Christmas somewhere else with Doria.

      • Tourmaline says:

        Richard Palmer in the Daily Express actually has a relatively positive story today that not only is the Queen totally fine about Christmas, she regularly visits Meghan and Harry at Frogmore and wants to be supportive of them.

      • BayTampaBay says:

        Piers Morgan wrote a nasty story on the Sussexes today and it only generate 627 comments in two hours. Looks like the commentariat of The Daily Fail is getting sick of Piers Morgan writing the same story over and over again. It could not happen to a nice guy.

    • Nahema says:

      I think it’s completely understandable that they would want to spend Christmas with Doria and maybe not all that surprising but it’s likely Kaiser is right and they’ve not played this very well. It looks like the Royals are pushing them out and they’re willingly stepping aside. I can see all of this ending in a painful and messy way but hopefully I’m wrong.

      • Becks1 says:

        @Nahema – yes, I think that’s where the talk of “optics” comes in, even though I hate that term. I think this was probably the plan all along, and its not something that was decided yesterday, but it looks like they’re being pushed out.

        I think like many things, this is a result of H&M underestimating interest, even after the past two years. Like they probably didn’t think whether or not they went to Sandringham would be THAT big a deal – after all the Cambridges have skipped, Zara and Mike have skipped, I think Camilla always skips, etc. So when they realized there was this media frenzy they released that statement, but it looks like they made that choice as a result of “the rift” and maybe it was just always the plan for Archie’s first Christmas.

    • Lorelei says:

      @Becks I’m not too surprised because I’m one of the people who thinks they’re building up to leave the BRF. I know many disagree, so time will tell, but it just feels that way to me. What annoyed me yesterday was that all of the Kate stans spun that statement into “They weren’t invited! The Queen showed them!” But that’s bound to happen with anything they do.

      That said, it’s preposterous that CNN would cover it at all, let alone on the first day of impeachment hearings.

      • Becks1 says:

        @lorelei – someone here in one of these posts said that – that they weren’t invited! I mean, sure. That’s always a possibility. But come on now, do people really think the Queen said “nope, you’re not coming”?

      • Lorelei says:

        @Becks I doubt the Queen would not have invited them, but who knows. I think she’s far more petty than some people realized and she might think it’s a snide way of publicly showing her disapproval of their behavior or some nonsense like that? It seems like courtiers can pull strings and convince her of anything. I really have no idea!

        ETA: and again, look what everyone’s talking about: this, not a peep Andrew in weeks. So anything is possible in this disgusting family, IMO.

      • Lorelei says:

        *Meant to say not a word about Andrew OR Kate’s low work numbers.

      • Babs says:

        Or maybe this is the Sussexes’way of saying to Queenie and her pedo rapist son, “We believe Virginia Roberts Giuffre and the rest of price Andrew victims”.🤷🏽‍♀️🤷🏽‍♀️🤷🏽‍♀️

      • Lorelei says:

        @Babs I also believe that’s a factor. Meghan’s skin was probably crawling at that concert last weekend.

      • Islandgirl says:

        This……I also believe that they have made a decision to leave.
        The tears from the queen the other day may not have been because of the solemnity of the occasion but because she knew that it would be the last time Harry would be participating.
        I think that she is the person that Harry would confide in.
        And why shouldn’t they….the couriers are still throwing shade and talking about it being ok if Meghan was visiting her father.

      • morrigan01 says:

        I think Harry and Meghan are out too, but I think they are establishing a firm plan – and exit strategy – before they do so. Before I edited my comment in a previous thread I said that spending 6 weeks in LA is kind of a weird move because, while Thanksgiving is a big holiday in the US for family coming together, Christmas really isn’t. Because family and friends usually have more time off for Thanksgiving than Christmas. Thanksgiving falling in the last week on November is convenient to do so, but still.

        IMO, if they really DO come to the US, and LA in particular, they are both going to be taking some meetings IMO. Setting up some things/work and such so all their UK projects can be worked on in the US. Harry can easily run Sentebale and the Invictus Games from LA. And Meghan’s got likely a LOT of contacts still from her acting career. (IMO she won’t go back to acting, but I could totally see her starting up a production company or something).

        If they leave, it’ll happen sometime in late-2020 are the earliest IMO, if they do so before the Queen passes. I’ve always felt they would leave once William became King, but now I think that timetable has move up a LOT.

  4. Escondista says:

    Should they stay and fight, Kaiser?
    I’m not sure there’s any way to save the royal family (even post-Queen) with William around. And I don’t think there’s any reason that they need to spend Christmas with people who treat them poorly.
    Sometimes when you have a toxic family you have to cut your losses, start your own family, and do it your own way.

    • Pineapple says:

      Escondista … I agree. I read a book by a psychiatrist once and he said he has a job because people insist on spending time with relatives who treat them horribly. It was eye opening to me. Toxic families are toxic families are toxic families. Period.

      • zilin says:

        The RF is literally the only reason these two can enjoy their vastly privileged lifestyle. It genuinely enrages me with the younger generation of royals, so much freaking entitlement everywhere.

      • olive says:

        @zilin ok boomer

      • Mika says:

        @zilin

        soo.. that means that they should be ok with being treated poorly?

      • Kristina says:

        @Zilin please don’t use “boomer” as an insult. I’m 2 generations below that, but I still find it hurtful to say. You, too, will age, and you won’t want your opinions or personhood discarded because of your age. In fact, people feel hurt when their opinions are discounted due to youth as well.

      • MsIam says:

        @Kristina, I am a boomer and I don’t find that comment insulting, in fact it is spot on. My generation, which said “Don’t trust anyone over 30” is turning into a bunch of old fuddy-farts! Also, I’m not sure how wanting to spend time with other family members when you have spent Christmas with the royals the past two years, makes one entitled, but ok boomer.

      • GirlMonday says:

        @Kristina, Boomers have been writing articles and talking about how whiny and entitled millenials (the children that they raised) are for years. And now their feelings are hurt when they get called what they are?

      • zilin says:

        @olive erm..I’m 30 and an EU immigrant living in the UK.

      • zilin says:

        Obviously people seem to have a massive investment into this woman which they have never met and highly unlikely will ever meet, but for god’s sake, all the woman did is marry a guy whose family pays for them to live in total luxury and privilege and now both of them bemoan their deep troubles. If that’s not entitled I don’t know what is. Catching up with celeb gossip is one thing, but this is just getting ridiculous.

      • olive says:

        @Kristina zilin didn’t say “ok boomer,” i did, and i stand by it. i hope younger people insult me and set me straight if i end up being a stick in the mud and resistant to change in my old age. if i’m ever demanding people accept scraps and shit treatment from family in the name of being “grateful,” please call me something worse than a boomer because it would be DESERVED.

      • Pip says:

        Absolutely agree Zilin. I think it’s interesting how invested Americans appear to be in all this – here in the UK I come across no-one – literally no-one – who gives a toss about them. Although I suppose as an NHS worker contending with the endless grim news here, we have other fish to fry.

        Also, as a second generation EU immigrant, just wanted to say hello to a fellow migrant to the UK. I hope the past three years haven’t been too “hostile” & that you don’t regret your decision to come here. Must admit I’m embarrassed & ashamed of this country at the moment & god knows where next year will take us.

      • morrigan01 says:

        Hey @zillin, FYI: Harry and Meghan have their own private money and wealth. If they leave the Royal Family they will STILL lead pretty privileged lifestyles. Only, away from the Royal Family, they wouldn’t have to put up with toxic, backstabbing family members who enable abuse of them – sexist, racist abuse when it comes to Meghan specifically.

        You know why I, as an American, and watching all this and am kinda invested? It’s *because* of that racist and sexist abuse of Meghan. It is a sight to behold. They couldn’t just let the biracial American girl marry in and do the work. Nope! Britain is basically having their Obama moment with Meghan, just like we in the US did with Obama himself and all the racist and racism that was still prevalent but kept under wraps for the most part suddenly unearthed itself. Lots of people exposed themselves and their prejudices in the US when Obama ran and then became President. And now the UK is doing the exact same thing when it comes to Meghan.

        Funny story I’ve told elsewhere here btw: most Americans who lean right politically have always said Europe was way more racist than the US. I was always skeptical of that claim from them, until recently, seeing what was going on wrt the abuse of soccer (football) players of color, Brexit and now Meghan.

    • Golly Gee says:

      They can stand their ground and be miserable in a situation which will never change, or they can “give up” and create the life they want. Sometimes strength means flexibility, not rigidity. The amount of energy that is being sapped by the Royals and the tabloids, could be channeled into happier and useful pursuits.

      • Tourmaline says:

        This–sometimes “giving up” means being smart and making your own happiness. There is such a thing as cutting one’s losses, knowing when to let go and move on with life and what is important to you.

        Life is short as I am sure Harry well knows with his own mum’s life ending age 36.

    • Nahema says:

      As someone who had a toxic family but has lost everyone involved, I can say it isn’t that easy. I gave ultimatums and cut my mother and father out of my life because they wouldn’t change. It still hurts like hell and then there’s the added feeling of wondering whether you’ve taken it too far, should have tried harder or could have done anything different. Not to mention that just because you’ve left the toxic setup, doesn’t mean you haven’t carried some of those traits for the next generation.

      It’s easy for us to say what they should do when we don’t have all the facts and are filling in the blanks.

      • MsIam says:

        Who said anyone is cutting anyone out? Way to bring the drama. All married couples bring two sets of families into the picture. Spending time with one doesn’t mean you hate the other. Harry is not 12 years old anymore. He’s an adult with his own life and family. Let him and Meghan be great and not let it be some diplomatic crisis.

      • Erinn says:

        MsIam, instead of being rude to other posters, maybe try reading the comment that they are replying to.

        In this case it was a reply to escondista who posted:
        “Sometimes when you have a toxic family you have to cut your losses, start your own family, and do it your own way.”

      • Lady D says:

        Stop beating yourself up, Nahema. If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of anyone else. You’re taking the right steps. Don’t start doubting yourself now, you are stronger than you think and you’re clearly brave, I really hope everything works out for you. I had to excise my family too. The day after I finished high school, I moved/ran 500 miles away from home. Two days later I moved another 300 miles. I was 17, didn’t know a single person where I ended up, and I didn’t feel safe, but I was safer. Turned out to be the best thing I ever did.

    • Kebbie says:

      It would look so bad for the royal family if they managed to run off the first biracial member and one of the world’s favorite princes. They need Harry and Meghan more than Harry and Meghan need them. I don’t think the courtiers understand that, and maybe the senior members don’t get it either.

    • Mika says:

      @ziln

      I don’t understand your line of reasoning. Why do you think it’s ok for the press and family members to use racist tropes among other things to slander and other-ize them? No one is disagreeing that they are privileged and lead much easier lives than most people. But that does not mean that they deserve to be dragged through the mud in the press and used as a scapegoat by their own family members. Fair criticism of their work and their spending habits is perfectly normal and expected, but the large majority of they criticism they’ve received has been baseless and they have the right to say something.

  5. hnmmom says:

    I say good on them. I wish I could avoid my toxic family members over the holidays. I spend a considerable amount of energy trying to find peace and joy amid the stress and anxiety. With an adorable new baby, I can see wanting to give the middle finger to the haters and make plans for a calm, joyous, peaceful holiday. I hope it’s lovely for them and I hope there’s some coal in the stockings at Sandringham.

  6. Kittycat says:

    How are the Sussexes ‘running away’?

    Literally they are doing what other members in the royal family have done.

    Why are there literal double standards for the Sussexes?

    • Valiantly Varnished says:

      +100

    • Kebbie says:

      Her point was explained by the fact that they skipped Balmoral also. She’s saying it’s a pattern. Two big royal family gatherings in a row they’ve opted to not attend. And good for them.

      • Coco says:

        Two big events in a row isn’t a pattern, especially when you’ve got a new baby. If they miss them next year too, then yes, it’s a pattern. I say we hold off on calling it anything until there’s more data. Two examples doesn’t seem enough.

      • Kristin says:

        Do we know for sure they weren’t at Balmoral? I know it was written, but was that confirmed?

      • Kebbie says:

        @Kristin All of the Sussex friendly press said they didn’t go. Some said it was because Archie is so young, others because they were working, but they made a point to say the Queen has visited with them in Windsor.

  7. broodytrudy says:

    Oh boy. Excited to see the headlines about them keeping Archie away from his grandparents. Are “grandparent rights” a thing over there? I think a few states have them here and that 100% seems to be the type of thing the British press would latch on to.

    In the meantime, am contemplating a move to just outside LA myself. My current dream is to bump into Meg whilst choosing crackers. We bond over our favorite type of cheez-its and we do charity work together. Sigh.

    • Noodle says:

      @broodytrudy, where outside LA do you plan to move? I’m in Orange County and love it here, although the cost of living is staggering. Welcome to the Golden State!

    • Lorelei says:

      @Trudy I saw a bunch of comments like that yesterday, even though I swear I read somewhere that the children are kept in an entirely different room during Sandringham Christmases!

  8. truthSF says:

    Wow! All this bs complaint for the Sussex skipping Sandringham, but when the Cambridges and Zara did it, they got nothing but praise!!

    • Wowsers says:

      The Cambridges definitely did not get praised on here.
      I’ll admit I’m surprised they are not going, if you take it at face value though there’s nothing particularly sinister in alternating christmas between each family.

      • Becks1 says:

        The Cambridges did not get praised on here, for sure, and I know there was some criticism in the press, but I don’t think it was this huge backlash like it feels like there is for Meghan and Harry. It felt like it was more “can you believe they’re not going?? OMG, Kate is forging her own path as a royal!!!”

        I feel like the press was happy to get the church pics of the Middletons, but I think others (probably here, lol) sort of scratched their heads at the whole church walk, Boxing day shoot, etc – it seemed like they were trying to recreate the Sandringham Christmas without actually being at Sandringham. If they had just gone to Bucklebury and gone quiet, so to speak, I think people would have just shrugged and moved on.

        But at any rate, I’m glad the Cambridges did it, because it gives H&M an automatic defense (sad that they need one, but we all know they do.)

      • noway says:

        Yes the first time they did it the Cambridges were skewered by the press and courtiers. They are definitely a judgy bunch. Now Cambridge criticism in the day didn’t have the same crappy racist elitist angle Sussex criticism has now. In fact neither did Diana criticism. Although, I feel like Diana was honestly hunted down and followed by paparazzi more than either Meghan or Kate. Still Sussex crap seems worse, but all were still criticized pretty vehemently. Plus social media wasn’t as big and honestly with gossip it makes everything worse.

      • truthSF says:

        Im not talking about Celebitchy, I’m talking about all the positive headlines from major newspapers and websites praising Will and Kate for bucking the tradition when they first chose to skip Sandringham to spend time with Kate’s familly!!

    • Purplehazeforever says:

      Are you kidding me? The Cambridges got criticized for skipping Sandringham. Many people on this site blasted them.

      • Ela says:

        The day, a single Cambridge article generates 1000s of comments spewing racist vitriol at them, is the day, I will say they are criticized on the same scale as the Sussexes. Until that day, the comments on this site is a drop in the ocean compared to what Meghan goes through.

      • Purplehazeforever says:

        I’m not comparing the criticism the Cambridges received for skipping Sandringham to the racist coverage of the Sussexes. Nor would I. I’m pointing out that the Cambridges were criticized for skipping Sandringham by Celebitchy commenters…I didn’t see the issue with them doing it nor do I see what the problem is with the Sussexes doing it.

      • olive says:

        sure, on this site they got criticized, but not by the media. the media didn’t freak out like this when they skipped sandringham.

      • Lorelei says:

        But didn’t the Cambridges get criticized mostly because they did their own “pap walk” to a different church with the kids and were seen to be pulling attention from the traditional one they usually do? Because obviously people were more interested in the photos of Kate and the children than the elder royals. That’s how I remember it, but obviously I could be wrong.

  9. Sassy says:

    Good they are going to spend the holidays with Doria. The holidays are to be celebrated surrounded by people who love and support you not people who despise your existence.
    Damn optics! They shouldn’t have to carry the happy load for people who stood back and watched her be bullied all because they wanted to protect a pedo.
    Stay and fight for what exactly? I thought they were the irrelevant 6th in line? minor royals? Doria has a life, Single doesn’t mean lonely. Her daughter can and should go visit her. Doria schedule probably isn’t as flexible as theirs. Why should she be expected to drop what she’s doing to travel to them?

    • Mego says:

      I agree. The press and public have made a lot of assumptions about Doria who has a career and possibly a partner in LA. Meghan is anAmerican and doesn’t get to spend much time there so Harry is accommodating that.

  10. Cidy says:

    I believe that this is an okay movie PR and Palace wise for them, again there is no win/win situation for anyone now. They are perfectly allowed to spend Christmas with extended family.

  11. LoonyTunes says:

    Unpopular opinion: I would grin and bear it. The visits, not the abuse. This is what they signed up for as working royals who are supported by the crown: kowtowing to the queen. It’s one day and then you go on and do your own thing. (Unless they know for a fact who is planting the negative stories. In which case, yeah, no—wouldn’t want to break bread with that person, either.

    • noway says:

      I know people on here think there is a concerted planting of stories by people in the monarchy, and the Queen can stop it, I’m not so sure. I remember Diana and all the crazy publicity with her. The monarchy has been horrible at controlling the press when they get this crazy. People who think the Queen can stop it make me laugh. She never has before, even when it was on her. When all the Diana stuff came out stories were the Queen is cold, calculated, mean similar to now. She couldn’t stop it then. Why would she be able to stop it now with all its new social aspect. With Andrew now, the stories are still out there. She hasn’t been able to stop them, and the only reason I don’t think they garner the number H&M get are twofold. One the story is old, and other than Epstein death there hasn’t been much new on it. Second Andrew is not very popular now, and people don’t read those stories or show up to see him anymore. All of that is a good thing. Now I could see her blocking it criminally, but I don’t think she needs to as the investigation doesn’t seem to even be able to arrest Epstein’s accomplice yet.

      Now as far as the story from a hot mic on Amy Rohrbach about the Epstein story being blocked by the monarchy. Having worked at ABC, NBC and CBS in my lifetime, I don’t believe that’s the reason. This goes with Ronan Farrow’s story about Weinstein too. The networks are the last place to go if you want to break an investigative big news story, especially if it affects anyone with power or money, it’s always been one of the print avenues or now online. The networks probably, because they are the only entity licensed by the government, generally are gun shy and need more verification on sources. Plus they just don’t have the journalist who are good at verifying stories. When they have tried i.e. Dan Rather and George W. crap it has gone really bad. I mean the Washington Post printed an entire fake piece and the writer wins a pulitzer but has to give it back and they keep going, but the networks not so much. Think about it name a major investigative story in the last 50 years which was first aired by the networks and not from sources at the NY Times, New Yorker, the Post, Wall St. Journal, etc. or National Enquirer for that manner with John Edwards. The monarchy didn’t have to call the networks. They wouldn’t go there. They are wusses about it. I really do think the monarchy believes in a ostrich approach to most media ignore it will go away. I think both Harry and William as they were front row seats with their mother seem to be a bit more aggressive with their wives on go directly at them than the rest of the monarchy.

      • Sassy says:

        The Queen can shut the press up about Andrew’s pedo behavior but ok sure she’s a powerless fragile old lady.

      • Betsy says:

        I don’t know anything about the press and I generally agree with you. I think she can shut down a percentage, sort of cut back the weeds, but she can’t kill it all.

        What she can do, what she should be doing, is taking William behind the shed for his part in all this. He’s not all the racist press and I’m not suggesting he is, but he seems to be behind a lot of this and for that he should be taken to task.

      • Elisa says:

        hmmm, William managed to shut down the Rose stories and I refuse to believe he has more pull over the media than the queen. If he does, he has my grudging respect for being smarter / more ambitious than he appears to be.
        Andrew/Epstein: IMO there are more high-profile people involved in this. It is not only buried by the queen (who is sacrificing H&M in the process), but also by other people in power. I hope some journalists are working on this behind the scenes.
        Anyways, even IF the queen has little power over the media, she could at least do an engagement together with Meghan or with H&M. Hasn’t happened. So to keep a long story short: the queen is absolutely complicit in this.

      • Nancito says:

        @noway – interesting perspective. Initially, I assumed that the Queen / Charles could have convinced the media to, at the very least, dial back some of the vitriol. And I wondered if the Sussexes were skipping these royal get-togethers out of annoyance and hurt, at the Royal Family, for not helping them. I still think, though, that William and Charles could have issued statements in support of the Sussexes.

    • 10KTurtle says:

      I agree. I know the situation sucks, but it’s part of the package. And how can they “run away?” Is Harry going to re-enlist? Is Meghan going to start booking acting gigs? Harry’s inheritances and Meghan’s savings are not going to maintain their current standard of living for the next 60 years- they are dependent on the crown welfare.
      And before everyone jumps all over me, I want to see Andrew investigated and the whole family to stop dumping on House Sussex just as much as everyone else here.
      Edited to add: xmas at Sandringham sounds dreadful. Hasn’t it been said that the queen doesn’t even like having babies/children around? Is the Queen really going to miss two more people when it sounds like all anybody does there is change clothes all day? Yeah, “but Harry’s her GRANDSON”- yeah, and she doesn’t seem to mind when William skips out…

      • Nancito says:

        Ya, short of getting on the next space shuttle, where are they going to go on Planet Earth, that will protect them from the public eye.

    • Mumbles says:

      Agreed. Just do it for a day or two. Their lovely house and a materially comfortable life that they’re not working 80 hours a week to support is courtesy of the queen and Prince Charles. Plus if Harry is at all close to his grandfather (and I don’t know if he is)…he’s 99. Just saying.

      The author made a great observation about tactics versus strategy. I can’t help but imagine William smirking at all of this. And that too is another reason I wish they would go. I fear that Harry has been outplayed here.

      • MsIam says:

        Did they just not see the whole family this week? Were they not with the Queen and PC and all the rest of the bunch? Are they indentured servants with no say so in their own lives? Everything H&M have done the past 2 years has been to support the crown. They have traveled on behalf of the Commonwealth. Meghan is patron to charities assigned to her by the Queen. All of the things she and Harry have been involved in are to support charities and help people around the world. What more do people want? They are not out drinking, partying, showing their asses on IG but still they get criticized and called “entitled” and “ungrateful”. Stop it already.

      • morrigan01 says:

        Thank you @MsIam! I agree. Plus, I guess Doria doesn’t matter wrt any of this, huh @Mumbles? And don’t anybody start with the nonsense about Doria going to Sandringham, not after the British Press and RR threw a hissy fit about Doria riding in a freakin’ *car* during the Cookbook launch and how much taxpayer funds that cost. Doria is not a British subject or citizen. She’s not required to show up there or subject herself to press abuse for just daring to be a black woman riding in a royal car or whatever. For all we know, she may not even be going over to the UK at all, and Harry and Meghan *are* going to see her in LA. That’s a 5000+ mile trip and 12+ hours on a plane, one way. Why should Doria have to make such a flight every time?

        Meghan spent *two* Christmas’ with The Queen and the other Royals. She and Harry can spend this one with Meghan’s mom. Doria is *just as worth* to see her *only* child and her *only* grandchild and not get abuse from the press for it.

      • Lowrider says:

        Harry is not outplayed because he is NOT playing the game!

  12. Ela says:

    Why should they appease racists? The only reason the royal reporters are up in arms, is that they won’t have their favorite punching bag around, to crictise her every move. It’s so abusive and disgusting.

    • Mego says:

      Yes they won’t get the fab four pap stroll to church. What will all the body language experts do? Lol! Harry and Meghan will be spared intrusions on their privacy for awhile too.

  13. Belli says:

    Other royals have missed Christmas at Sandringham, so I think this is mostly the tabloids whipping people up into a frenzy for something that isn’t as big a deal inside the family.

    It would be easy PR points to go, but it would also be more scrutiny. This way, there won’t be endless photos of them on the pap walk, endless body language analysis, endless column inches about how Meghan’s the new Grinch who stole Christmas…

    The papers will lose revenue from them not being there. And for that I can only support them.

    What is really interesting though, is how much support they were getting in the Daily Fail comment section for this. Among the usual bile there were a lot of people asking what the big deal was, saying it was ok and pointing out that other royals have spent Christmas away from Sandringham before. And they were getting upvoted. Could this be the tide turning?

    • Becks1 says:

      honestly, I think your first paragraph is probably dead on. I don’t think this is as big a deal inside the family as people like to think (I’m sure it was maybe 20 years ago, but I think now, considering Philip is rarely seen anymore, the Queen doesn’t walk to church but rides in the car, etc, its probably not as much of a command performance as it used to be.) I think the same is true with Balmoral.

    • Bella DuPont says:

      @ Belli

      I’m more inclined to think it’s some sort of trap by the Daily Fail. Maybe an attempt to be able to show some “variation” in court, in the style of their reporting on M+H.

      Or maybe after extensive spying, they believe they know where the Sussexes will be *hiding* over the holidays. They’re laying down their ambush and hoping to be able to grab some sort of massive “Caught with their pant down in Fiji!!!” scoop. 🙄

      That would be my explanation.

      *OR*, the Russian troll farm that contractually supplies them comments had some sort of logistical disaster (nearby nuclear plant leak?) and is being hastily relocated, forcing the Daily Fail to rely on comments they’d normally routinely delete.

      PS: If you think there’s an unusually high number of conspiracy theories in this one post, and you’re thinking I should have announced wearing my tin foil hat before launching in, just know that there’s no point anymore as I’ve now had it welded permanently on my head.

      Blame the RR.

      • Golly Gee says:

        hey! that was my hat!

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @Belli, There are many PAID posters at The Daily Fail commentariat. The paid posters are NOT paid by the Daily Fail but paid by someone else. I know this for a fact as I know someone who makes about $1,500.00 a month as a paid poster. The poster’s personal views dove tail and fall in line with those of people paying her. She post in her own words what she wants to post but they tell her WHERE to post. The Daily Fail is one place she is told post. However, she is NOT posting on the BRF as the BRF in really not her area of expertise.

      • MsIam says:

        @BTB, dang $1500 per month!! How do you get in on that gig, lol? Does it involve swearing an oath in blood or anything else creepy?

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @MsIam, my friend was recruited. At one time she worked in fashion PR so the connection could have been from that employment tenure.

      • Kebbie says:

        If you read the DM comments, a huge amount of them have nothing to do with the article at all. It’ll be a story about Will and Harry not getting along and there are hundreds of comments like “MeGain is such a narcissist” “she’s manipulative and he’s so dumb he fell for it” “she won’t be happy til she brings the entire monarchy down.” They’re just a bunch of insults completely unrelated to the article at hand. Comments on their political articles are similar. They’ve got to be bots.

        It may be some kind of AI similar to Microsoft’s Tay. “She” had conversations with people and ended up spouting off racist stuff because that’s what she was learning from the conversations. So it could be bots are mimicking what others are saying.

    • noway says:

      That’s nice, and I think people generally understand this. Most people jockey holidays with two families too. I don’t think the Sussex bashing is being squashed yet though. However, the only thing going for them is the Sussex bashing, like most stories gets old. There is a cycle and it might die down on it’s own. Hopefully, wherever they go for the holiday they can try to go in peace and quiet. Leave a few pictures on instagram to settle the fanatics or fans I mean. Have a good holiday.

  14. Claire says:

    Good for them. If I were them I would spend as much time away from the other royals as possible. Do my charity work and go home to my loving family.

  15. Bishg says:

    I really wish you’d tone down the British Royal Family coverage… the best way to help these people get a semi-normal life is to forget about them.. also, it’s really all about feuding and resentment.

    • notasugarhere says:

      You are welcome not to click on the stories. CB is one of the very few low-troll sites left for royal watchers and many of us appreciate that. It is also one of the few places where there is strong support for Harry and Meghan. This site is not the problem. Want to go after the problem sites, go trip over to tumblr.

    • BayTampaBay says:

      @Bishg, People come to Celebitchy BECAUSE of the British Royal Family coverage. CB and Kaiser are very fair and evenhanded in their coverage of the BRF. One can actually have a discussion on this site, learn something knew and in the process and become a more enlightened person. I am much more enlightened regarding POC BECAUSE of this site and BECAUSE of BRF coverage.

      • Lorelei says:

        What BayTampaBay said.

      • Kristina says:

        @BTB I would not call it even by a longshot. I would call it pro-Meghan. And that’s totally ok. There are pro-Kate, pro-Queen etc sites all over the place, too!

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @Kristina, Kaiser has said many time there are thing she wants to call out Meghan for but because of all the ridiculous negativity she feels she does not want to add fuel to the fire. However, Kaiser has constantly called out Meghan for her poor fashion choices and ill fitting clothes. If you listen to the CB podcast, Meghan has been called out many times for many things.

        You are correct that CB is pro-Meghan in that CB does not overlook the good in order to focus on the negative. Other than “notasugarhere” whose opinions are well known, there are not that many anti-Cathy people on this site. Most people who make negative comments on Cathy are commenting on her laziness. I would be willing to bet that most CBers find Cathy too boring and dull to make any real effort to comment. Her husband Normal Bill is another matter.

      • Kristina says:

        @BTB good points. I enjoy reading your comments on here! And I agree about boring Cambridge- it’s just true. I didn’t know that about the podcast- I don’t have as much a chance to listen as I do to read.

    • Lady D says:

      Do you really believe that me sitting here reading about H&M is preventing them from leading a normal life? I honestly don’t have that much power. Plus there’s the fact that I rarely watch TV or movies and half the faces on this site are unfamiliar to me. Besides, it could be sooo much worse. Imagine if all the royal stories were stories about the Kardashians instead. Gag.

    • Jaded says:

      The stories about the GRF have actually been enlightening to many people around the world who aren’t familiar with its inner workings – i.e. having to get permission from parliament to step out of the line of succession, you can’t just “quit”; the lengthy process of acquiring British citizenship, you can’t just shove Meghan to the head of the line to get it instantly; what will happen when the Queen passes away, etc. etc. Reading these articles have no impact whatsoever on H&M leading/not leading a normal life. In fact it probably helps to understand the magnitude of racist, ugly treatment they get from the gutter press and creates some much needed sympathy for what they go through.

  16. Toot says:

    Good, just like I wanted it for them.

    Harry’s last listed engagement is Sunday, so they maybe spending Thanksgiving with Doria too. Great if true for Doria to be able to spend Archie’s first Thanksgiving and Christmas with his Grandma in a loving environment.

    The British press are just pissed that they’re not going to make money off the Christmas walk like that would is the Sussexes were there. That’s why all the griping by the usual suspects.

    • BayTampaBay says:

      “The British press are just pissed that they’re not going to make money off the Christmas walk like that would is the Sussexes were there. That’s why all the griping by the usual suspects.”

      NO SCHITT SHERLOCK! I am sure The Daily Fail had to furlough at least 10 hacks masquerading as journalists over the Thanksgiving-Christmas holiday due to no Meghan & Harry.

      Bill & Cathy DO NOT generate revenue.

  17. Enn says:

    They have to do what is best for them, and for their little family. I’m not sure what the long game is for anyone here, but hope that it all works out for the best.

    • Kebbie says:

      I wavered from thinking they should just grin and bear it to feeling like, why would they want to ruin their first holiday season with Archie by forcing themselves to be around people that haven’t lifted a finger to protect or defend them? Ultimately, they’ll be happier this way and it’s Archie’s first Christmas, so optics be damned. I think they made the right choice for themselves, and it’s a kind of self-care to opt out of Sandringham.

  18. Jbh says:

    I don’t think BP wants them adrift. But all of the speculation is just that speculation. Not sure what their long game is but I don’t think it will end well for H and M. This is my opinion and am stating it as such. Others would do well to realize they are speculating as well. 🧐

    • Bella DuPont says:

      Do you *want* it to end well for them though? Somehow, I suspect not.

      • Jbh says:

        I want it to end well because I like the royal family. I don’t think it will though – my opinion- not going to engage in my thoughts on this online though. The speculation and snark are silly and make me sad.

      • Beach Dreams says:

        The speculation is “silly” and “makes you sad”….and you’re engaging in it 🙄

    • Lorelei says:

      Doesn’t it go without saying that anyone’s comment on here is obviously their own opinion (i.e. speculation)?

    • MsIam says:

      And what exactly does “not end well ” mean? Imprisonment? The guillotine? Assassination? Are the royals going to order H&M to stop doing charity work and bringing awareness to causes? The Royal Family has a lifetime history of scandals and yet the beat goes on. Somehow, I think all will be well for H&M.

  19. Jbh says:

    Word BISHG

  20. MEL says:

    How do we know they’ll be in LA? They could spend Christmas in Antartica for all we know. Anyone that thinks spending Xmas in Sandringham will put an end to the rift rumours is delibrately and willfully being obtuse. Last year’s pap walk did nothing but add fuel to the rumour and Meghan as usual was singled out and her body language dissected like a lab monkey. And all she did was talk and be gracious to Kate. Apparently the Queen and Phillip will not live to see another Xmas after this one, so Doria should wait her turn. What happens if they live another 4 or 5yrs, she should forever wait in the wings since every xmas from now on will forever be their last. Now they said Doria would have been welcomed in Sandringham, they forgot they threw a tantrum last year and questioned why the Queen would “break protocol” and invite her there. What is happening here is obvious for anyone that wishes to see it. Whatever decision the Sussexes make, the opposite will forever be the right one. Let’s see William and Kate announce they too will be spending Christmas with the Middletons this year and watch these same people dig up excuses for them.

    • Bella DuPont says:

      “What happens if they live another 4 or 5yrs…”

      Lol…..sorry, but this made me laugh. 4 or 5 years? Sorry, but the woman (the Queen), will probably outlive her first son. She is far too power hungry to die anytime soon.

      I posit that she’s still alive in 20 years, with one hand on a light walking stick and the other hand still tightly clutching her crown.

      • noway says:

        Oh come on 20 years would make her 114 isn’t that like close to the oldest person alive?

        Not saying they should go, but that scenario is highly unlikely. Plus, the Queen has a big family one or two grandkid families missing isn’t really a big thing. Plus H&M live nearby. I’m sure they see their grand parents a fair amount.

      • Bella DuPont says:

        @ noway

        It’s called farce. 😉😉

      • BayTampaBay says:

        I always thought the purpose of Christmas at Sandringham was a chance for the second tier Royals and random royals to get together and spend time as a group.

        I am sure QEII is in daily or weekly contact with the households of Wales, Cambridge, Sussex, York and Princess Royal as they are ones who help her publicly carry the Crown.

      • Lorelei says:

        I can definitely see her living to over 100, like the Queen Mother.

      • Lady D says:

        Does Andrew outrank the Princess Royal? I thought she was older.

      • Becks1 says:

        @Lady D – yes, he does and yes, she’s older. The males were higher in the line of succession until the law was changed when Kate was pregnant with George. When Louis was born, it did not change Charlotte’s place in the line of succession.

        so it goes Charles, William – his kids (in order of birth), then Harry and his kids (in order of birth), then Andrew, then B&E, then Edward, James, Louise, THEN Anne and her kids. So you can see how Peter and Zara are pretty far down.

        In 30 years, as the Cambridge kids have their kids, Archie will likewise be bumped even farther down the line. H&M know this and that’s why they are smartly raising him as a private citizen (a la Peter/Zara) rather than a royal (a la B&E, who were stuck in an awkward place when it was announced they would not be working royals.)

      • Kebbie says:

        “ I posit that she’s still alive in 20 years, with one hand on a light walking stick and the other hand still tightly clutching her crown.”

        😅

  21. Lucylee says:

    Alternating years with both families is what most people do or host event for both sides of the family. Since in-laws aren’t invited to Sandringham this makes sense. If Queenie is so interested in family why aren’t in-laws at least invited?

  22. S808 says:

    it looks like they’re adrift because they ARE, it’s obvious. They should not have to forfeit their peace and happiness on Christmas of all holidays to appease anyone. And outside of M&H, Doria deserves. She has had to sit in silence as her ex husband, the BM and the BRF abuse her only child and ESPECIALLY during her child’s pregnancy. She hasn’t spent Christmas with Meghan in 2 years and now she has a grandson. She deserves to spend quality time with them outside of the royal family.

    • swirlmamad says:

      Agree totally. Spending time at Sandringham isn’t going to move the needle an inch in terms of how the media will portray them. They’ll simply have less opportunity to pick them apart and bash them on every move they make….we know they’re going to make up crap regardless. Let them have some uninterrupted quality time with Doria and bum around with Archie on Xmas morning in their PJs. Lord knows they deserve it.

  23. Lili says:

    I’m torn. On one hand I agree with Kaiser on the other with the commenters, I would prefer to spend the Christmas with Doria. The only issue I have is optics. It seemed the hate went down also it would be a nice pr move. After ale they’re part of the royal family – for me it’s circus but..

  24. Guest2.0 says:

    The Sussexes are damned if they do and damned if they don’t. They are literally in a no win situation. Regardless of what they do they will be criticized and shredded.

    And why shouldn’t they spend the holidays with Doria? Meghan is her only child and she probably misses spending Holidays with her mom. And it’s not running away. Holidays are stressful enough without being surrounded by toxic people. Families can be the absolute worst at times.

    The RRs and tabloids are upset cause they won’t be able to cash in on H&M. But I’m sure they’ll make up crazy fan fiction to sell papers and generate clicks. I just hope H&M have their security locked down cause they will most likely be the most stalked couple on the planet for the next few weeks.

  25. HK9 says:

    You know what, this is a normal thing to do when your first child arrives. The Cambridges did it (and will continue to) and so should they. I hope they have a great time, come back and continue their charity work. It’s the first Christmas with Archie and I hope it will be wonderful.

  26. Pineapple says:

    The Queen can invite whomever she wants. Doria could have been invited … but I don’t think was. The Queen could have made attempts to get Harry and Meghan there. Just like she could have made attempts to have the press stop racist bullying of Meghan. But she is more inclined to make attempts to help Prince McRapey.

    • Bella DuPont says:

      Prince Andrape.

    • BayTampaBay says:

      Were the Sussexes “given” York Cottage at Sandringham?

    • Lorelei says:

      @Pineapple, yes, but we’ll never know. The Queen could have sat down and talked to Harry and Meghan and extended the invitation to Doria, and they said that after all they’ve been through this year, they just wanted a low-key Christmas at Frogmore and the Queen was fine with it. OR the Queen could see it as a major snub and be furious with them. Or she could have disinvited them because she’s displeased with some aspect of their behavior. We just don’t know. (I hope that someday, someone writes a tell-all and we find out though!)

      • Pineapple says:

        Lorelei, I think we know. If the Queen had gone out of her way to make things better for Harry and Meghan … I think they and Doria would be there celebrating. It is SHOCKING the lack of stories of Prince Andrew. SHOCKING. The story has it all, billionaires, sex slaves, famous people, child abuse. ALL. And next to no stories. Yet, the flight habits of the Queens grandchildren get disected? Really? The stories against Meghan were and are racist. Period. Had the Queen tried to stop it, the new young family would be there. They are escaping a toxic, racist and petty family. Period. Everyone can interrpret their gossip how they chose but looking at the two stories, and which one gets more coverage. That says alot in my opinion.

      • Tourmaline says:

        The Queen is 93 years old….some of the comments that the Queen needs to do this, stop that, tell this one that and that one this, seem to ignore she is SUPER elderly. Yeah she seems in relatively good health but come on 93 has some effects on a person and I’m sure her energies are limited.

        Too bad the BRF does not do the same as some other royal families where the monarch retires/steps down at a certain point to allow the next generation to take over before they, too, are elderly.

        And ultimately, the Queen cannot wholly control the UK press they have sensed blood in the water with the Sussexes and some tabs are in a little frenzy. See yesterday’s statement that the Sussexes would spend Christmas elsewhere and the Queen was fine with it—-still the usual suspect media outlets are running with it is an exile, it is an abomination, etc. for the Sussexes to spend Christmas elsewhere.

      • Lorelei says:

        @Pineapple I think we’re basically on the same page. I think it’s outrageous that the Queen did nothing to stop or decrease the attacks on Meghan while protecting a pedophile and have zero respect left for her.

        All I’m saying is that it’s possible that Doria was invited to Sandringham (for the “optics” of having them on the walk, just like the photo with both Doria and the Queen that got so much praise when Archie was born), but that both Meghan and Doria wanted no part of being around these people on Christmas, and preferred just staying at Frogmore.

        I can’t imagine how Doria feels about them after what she witnessed over the past year. It was probably worse for her than for Meghan, being so far away and feeling powerless to do anything about it. And Meghan didn’t want to force Doria into such an uncomfortable situation on her only grandchild’s first Christmas.

  27. Babs says:

    But why is it such a big deal when the Sussexes skip but no big deal when other royal family members who are in direct line and closer to the throne do? Sometimes this site sounds just like Richard Kay, c’mon. William and Kate have spent several Christmases away from Sandringham, Camilla has, why are the Sussexes being vilified for doing exactly what other BRF members have done in the past? Sweet Jesus, this is just crazy!! The Cambridges do something, crickets, Sussexes do the same exact thing and it’s oh the optics, they aren’t thinking this through, oh my goodness, the sky is falling and the world is coming to an end, geez louise, stop it.

  28. Peg says:

    Guess this why Harry did not take any paternal leave, and Meghan worked during her maternity leave.
    These guys had this plan before Archie was born, they had no plans to go to Sandringham.
    Funny how the BP release was so detail, all of a sudden it is about precedence.

    • Becks1 says:

      I do think this has long been the plan, and I think the press release was just bc the media was working into a frenzy over it.

  29. Guest2.0 says:

    And just why do people keep saying things will end badly for the Sussexes? What exactly is going to happen to them? Divorce? Excommunication from the Royal Family? What exactly?

    • Sassy says:

      Concern trolling. For the past year and a half we heard how they are minor royals they aren’t that important but them missing Christmas with his family will cause hell to rain down on them?

    • Beach Dreams says:

      As Sassy said, it’s trolling on their part. These are the people who aren’t overt with their dislike of Meghan but still disapprove of her for “reasons” they won’t elaborate on. They couch their dislike in these “concerns”—It’s the exact type of poster you’d see at GFY, where they need to maintain a civil front for worry of being banned.

      • Hope says:

        The amount of condescension and all the self-appointed royal experts at GFY are something else. Chock full of hand-wringing Beckies and Karens.

    • kerwood says:

      Good question. If Harry was going to leave the royal family, he’d be gone by now. He’s been given enough reason to do so and we all know how fed up he is. Meghan and Harry and working on a way of STAYING in the royal family that works for them. They don’t intend to endure the abuse for the rest of their lives.

      As for this holiday, I think they’re making a very SMART choice. There will come a time (probably after the Queen has passed) when senior members of the royal family are going to have to explain how they covered for a man involved in human trafficking. Any talk about ‘optics’ is going to involve the optics of holiday snaps with Pedo Andy. It’s not a good look for future kings and consorts to appear in public with that monster.

      The royal family was able to keep the most damaging stories about the Duke of Windsor’s relationship with Nazi Germany quiet; they don’t have that kind of power now. Harry and Meghan have avoided visiting the Queen when Pedo Andy was present. THEY will be able to say that they didn’t think that spending time with that man was suitable for their child. How is William going to explain letting his daughter within 100 miles of his uncle?

  30. Aurora says:

    I think people are being melodramatic. By consequence of Meghan being an ocean away from her mother friends we should expect that she will take trips to see them. I feel like is extremely unfair to expect a foreign bride to neglect her own mother and friends in her native country for her new family even if that new family is royalty.

    Alternating between families during the holidays is the norm for most married couples. As others have pointed out, the Cambridges have done the same. Phillip’s age wasn’t a consideration for them so why should it be for the Sussexes? Why is this decision by the Sussexes being treated as so major?

    Also did anyone care that Harry didn’t go to Balmoral before he married Meghan?

  31. Cee says:

    This seems like a tactical error, IMO.
    I really did believe the best compromise was spending Christmas with Doria in the UK and showing up for Christmas Service with the Windsors (plus Doria). However, as the Cambridges have alternated between both families, the press should not come after the Sussexes for this… but of course, they will, because the double standards aren’t subjective anymore.

    • Valiantly Varnished says:

      Well if you understand that it’s a double standard than it isn’t a “tactical error”. If you see it that way then you are essentially stating you think they should give in to the racist smear campaign

      • Cee says:

        I did not say any of those things. This isn’t solely a racist campaing – it’s xenophobic and classist, too.
        They refuse to release any information, as is their right, yet that plays right into the press’ game of smearing them any which way. The Cambridges were ridiculed for alternating their Christmas holidays yet KP was able to spin it as “what normal families in Britain do”, especially since they do show up for Christmas service with the family. We can only speculate on what the Sussexes will do – and this only fuels the smearing and negative press. *This* is what I consider a tactical mistake.

      • Valiantly Varnished says:

        @Cee your first sentence is “This seems like a tactical error, IMO.” You then go on in the comment above to prove the point of my reply to you. You believe that H&M should alter their behavior to avoid bad press from the racist UK media and royal reporters. Which btw – is giving in to said press.

      • Cee says:

        No, it is not. We can disagree without this turning into a pointless debate in which you take my words and only attribute whatever meaning works best for you.

      • Valiantly Varnished says:

        @Cee Im not “attributing” meaning to anything. I can only go bu what you say. But regardless of that my point stands. Comments like this again make it H&M’s responsibility to placate the UK media.

    • MsIam says:

      At the end of the day, these are real people, not just Royal caricatures. Doria has done all of the traveling to the UK, for the baby’s birth, christening. She came for Meghan’s book launch. Let them go visit her for a change, and what better time than Christmas. Besides, they were together with the family for the Remembrance Week and there will be plenty of other opportunities to see them.

  32. Sophie says:

    I agree with Kaiser. This might be a good and reasonable tactical decision, but it’s a lousy strategic one.

  33. Tanya says:

    I don’t understand how this isn’t strategic. Their goal is not to win. Their goal is to provide Archie with a happy childhood. Their strategy is to make sure he gets equal time with his maternal parents.

    You know what would be a bad precedent? Locking yourself into spending the holidays with just one side of the family by going three times in a row. They’ve got kids, they’re gonna alternate. That’s the precedent.

  34. Guest says:

    When they officially have moved away 100% it’s going to be hilarious watching William and Charles see who can throw each other under the bus faster.

    • Kebbie says:

      This is so true and so sad. What an awful family dynamic. They’re toxic and Harry and Meghan know it and want to protect Archie from it.

  35. Busyann says:

    Its possible that all things can be true. This is normal precedent set by other lazy royals, and they are adrift. If I’m being honest though, this really makes me feel deeply troubled with whatever is happening in that family right now. I’ve felt that way for a while and am worried for the Sussexes. I think things are worse than we can imagine and I hope Harry and Meghan are preparing for something.

    Charles and Queenie have done nothing to help this situation, but I think this is more a decision to stay away from Will. I will forever believe things went bad, very bery bad right around Easter when the exile stories started coming out. Harry looked like he wanted to rumble and they havent really been seen together much since.

    • Mego says:

      And yet Harry made very loving and loyal comments about William in that documentary. I have to wonder if the rift was as bad as we think if Harry would have done that.

      • kerwood says:

        Harry showed how mature he was with those comments. William is his brother and he will always love him. They walked behind their mother’s coffin TOGETHER. As far as Harry is concerned, nothing can break that bond, not even his brother’s horrible behaviour.

        Harry showed what kind of man he is with those comments. His mother would be proud.

      • Lorelei says:

        @Kerwood I hope you’re right, but it’s also a possibility that Harry said what he did because he knows that if he said anything outright negative about William, it would start WW3 over there. My sense is that he was keeping his public comments fairly neutral because he knows what the press would do if he didn’t. JMO.

      • Hope says:

        And William’s immediate response was rage and to go on the attack because he can’t stand not being in control.

  36. Loretta says:

    I’m happy with this choice, even Doria is Archie’s family (she’s his only grandmother) and after two Christmas without her only child is her turn to be with Harry and Meghan. It’s simple and fair.

  37. Guest says:

    The papers are upset because whether they want to admit it or not harry and Meghan bring the clicks. No one maybe outside England cares nothing about the royal family. Watch them bring the kids since that is the ONLY way they will get clicks.

  38. Purplehazeforever says:

    I doubt they’re adrift & the optics look bad because from our prospective we’re on the outside looking in. They’re a new family, with a baby & want to spend time with the only family member that doesn’t have an ulterior motive. They want to spend time away from royal courtiers & the British press. I certainly don’t blame them. Meghan just wants to relax & be with her mom. Without being picked apart.

  39. Lizzie says:

    my SIL and i were pregnant at the same time (what a funny coincidence!! haha…reader it was not a coincidence) and that year thanksgiving was painful. she’s a know it all and i was just exhausted at the end of it. so we skipped christmas.

    my excuse was not wanting to travel 10 hours heavily pregnant in bad weather. it took a calendar year for my MIL to not backhandedly bring it up but it was worth it. b/c now the whole family is on tenterhooks about the holidays and makes great pains to accommodate me and my husband b/c my MIL was so upset we couldn’t all be together. a year of pain to make 10 people live on my schedule for the rest of my life was 100% worth it. i hope it works the same for the sussex’s.

    • Lady D says:

      Congrats, you are a savvy player:) I love it when the good guys win one. LOL at making 10 people live on your schedule forever.

    • Tourmaline says:

      Yes setting a precedent and boundaries for what you will and won’t do is important.

      I can’t quite get over the level of guilt, shame, gaslighting, manipulation that some families pull with Christmas and holidays as the excuse.

    • Erinn says:

      God, I can’t imagine having Thanksgiving and Christmas so close together. It’s rough enough doing October and December.

      • Tourmaline says:

        It’s even worse this year as U.S. Thanksgiving Thursday falls very late this year on the 28th! Less than 4 weeks before Christmas! That’s a LOT of family togetherness (dreading).

  40. PizzaLove says:

    So they are financially supported by the British people yet they don’t want to have to play the game of being a royal? They want all the incredible perks of travel, money, fancy homes, fame but they want a quiet private life? They don’t want to share photos of their son who is also supported by their country?

    Seriously, they are irritating me. Why don’t they get real jobs (Meghan used to have one, Harry never has) and support themselves 100% and live on their own, privately.

    They are so entitled.

    • Bella DuPont says:

      Yawn.

    • Lina says:

      You sound psychotic. Demanding pictures of a baby? For what? So you can inspect how much of your tax dollars they spend on his teething ring? (They’re not even your tax dollars twit). You should honestly get help because you sound unhinged.

      • Valiantly Varnished says:

        I know everyone jumped on your comment on the other thread but Pizzalove’s comments here are proving you right.

      • Becks1 says:

        I mean, there’s thinking someone is crazy for demanding access to a 6 month old baby, and then there’s implying that person is a pedophile.

      • Lorelei says:

        I mean, I love seeing photos of Archie (and the Cambridge kids, for that matter, because they’re adorable) and I can assure you I am not a pedophile!

    • Lizzie says:

      you’re the one who sounds entitled…demanding they show pictures of their child b/c…people pay taxes? give me a break. you’re nuts.

    • Mego says:

      How does spending Christmas with the royals make you feel like your tax dollars are being well spent? How about 3 impactful charity initiatives over the course of two years? They HAVE shared several photos of their baby, just on their terms. Your comment makes you seem very shallow and ignorant.

    • rachel says:

      “the game of being a royal” as you so eloquently put it, is to represent the Queen and carry out royal duties. They should be under no obligation to constantly be releasing photos of their child and quite frankly, it’s kind of creepy to think that a normal adult would want photos of someone else’s child – outside the context of a family portrait, with other members present.

    • HMC says:

      Question. Do you demand baby pictures and health reports of everyone on benefits?

    • Valiantly Varnished says:

      @Pizzalove Im thinking Lina’s assessment of you on the other thread was pretty spot on.

      • notasugarhere says:

        The infestation is increasing as they get more desperate.

      • Erinn says:

        While I think it’s ridiculous to demand photos of the kid (can you imagine doing that to someone who wasn’t a public figure) the kind of comments that have been going through here lately are getting out of hand.

        The name calling is getting pretty lame.

    • Julaine says:

      So Prince Harry being in the military, including serving in an active fire zone isn’t a real job? How about leaving the active military and setting up the Invictus Games. His work with his charity; Sentabale? None of that was real work?

      Living their lives under constant scrutiny and criticism has got to be exhausting. Particularly dealing with people that think they have a right to every detail of their lives. Talk about entitlement.

    • Cee says:

      Oh, I’m sorry, do the British taxpayers own Archie’s trademark?

    • olive says:

      so you don’t think the military is a real career? that’s going to be insulting news to a whole lot of people who have made a career out of the military.

      i don’t know why you’re moaning about the entitlement of harry & meghan while you’re demanding photos of a baby who is a private citizen. YOU’RE acting entitled.

    • The Long-suffering Sequin says:

      Please stop asking for Archie’s photos. It’s getting increasingly weird.

    • kerwood says:

      @PizzaLove, I’ll bet folding money that you’re NOT a British taxpayer. The job of the royal family does NOT involve where they spend their holiday time. Nor are they required to provide holiday pics for the tabloids. Where Harry and Meghan spend their holidays, does not concern British taxpayers and I doubt REAL British taxpayers give a shit.

    • Le4Frimaire says:

      @PizzaLove. What are you going on about? We get more in print about the Sussexes than any other Royal couple. The coverage is constant and tiring. What exactly of their private life do you need to know and how much of their baby do you need to see? Saw a pic today of Kate with baby Louis, and honestly, don’t think we’ve seen much of him apart from his 1st birthday pix, and why should we? No one has any idea about the Cambridge’s private life and that’s fine. However, everything about the Sussexes has to be a quid pro quo, whether it be the press or taxpayers. They work hard, are under constant scrutiny and need a break. Yes they are privileged and they’ve never disputed that. That doesn’t mean you need to get every ounce of flesh from them and tour their house and look under the beds.

  41. RoyalBlue says:

    And yay. Now they don’t have to exchange gifts with pedo Andy.

  42. Lina says:

    Who in the god damn hell cares where these adults spend the holidays with their respective families?

  43. Charfromdarock says:

    Good for them. I hope they have a lovely loving Xmas with Doria.

  44. It’s the best decision they’ve made for a long time baby Archie deserves to spend his first family party with no toxicity and snakes in the grass especially l’m very glad that RR wil not have money on gossip after Christmas 😂

  45. TheOriginalMia says:

    It’s Archie’s first Thanksgiving and Christmas. They want to be together and spend it with Doria, who hasn’t had nearly as much time with her daughter and grandson as the BRF. There’s nothing strategic or tactical about it. It’s just a desire to be as normal and low key as possible.

    • notasugarhere says:

      I think you made the point in another post about her citizenship. Residency requirements might mean most of the holidays may be spent at home in Frogmore. She has years before she can apply for citizenship.

  46. Bookworm says:

    Maybe they were not invited. You never know.

  47. Karmak says:

    I’m happy for the Sussex family. I think this was their plan all alone. The press is making this out to be a snub to the Queen and Royal Family. Grandma Doria is a working woman. In the U.S. most employees get (hours or days) PTO / Paid Time Off. Doria was with Harry and Meghan at the birth of Archie. She stayed at least 2 weeks because Archie was over due. Doria was also at Archie Christening. Most working people in the US do not have unlimited time off work unless it is medical leave.

    Life is not guaranteed for anyone. My father passed at 62 and sister passed at 48. Meghan has the right to spend Christmas with her mother. Life is short.

    Some people are saying the Queen is older and Harry and Meghan should spend Christmas with her. No….. the Queen is blessed with a long life. Harry has spent many Christmas Holidays with his family. His wife has a mother who lives thousands of miles away. People do the math ……little to no PTO left.
    The flight to California to Britain is about 10 to 14 hours. You are going to lose 2 days traveling there and back home. Meghan has celebrated Christmas the last two years with the Royal Family. It is only fair Meghan gets to see her mother this Christmas.

    Another fact most Americans only get Christmas day off work. (unless Christmas day falls close to the weekend). Or your employer lets you to take PTO that close to the end of the year. I can not, I have black out days starting in October.

    • carmen says:

      I thought they got Thanksgiving off too?

    • Maxie says:

      Is Doria even working, though? She’s 63 and her Wikipedia page says she resigned from her job in 2018.

      I’m surprised they haven’t reached some sort of compromise to have a cottage for them and Doria at Sandringham, skip the formal activities and simply show up for the walk to the church.

  48. Jen says:

    You know, the Queen is 93. Maybe it’s time she learns that actions have consequences. She wants to allow her racist relatives to trash Meghan and Harry, use them as a scapegoat when they need to deflect the press, and shelter a pedophile? This could very well be the consequence for all those decisions. Even if it is just a matter of hating the Sandringham style Christmas, that is also valid. She chooses to make her family wait in cars so they get out in the right order, stop eating once she’s had enough ,gather to watch her speak on tv, etc. – stop treating the family like they all exist to serve you on what many consider to be a family holiday and maybe every year it won’t be a burden for them to join you.

    • Harla says:

      Let’s not forget the 5-7 wardrobe changes a day! For goodness sake woman let your family hang out in cozy sweats if they want too, nobody wants to wear formal wear while eating and drinking!!

      • BayTampaBay says:

        Which is why I believe Bill and Cathy really prefer Christmas at Middleton Manor if the real truth be known!

    • L84Tea says:

      They have to stop eating when she does??? I’ve never heard that. That is bonkers to me. I want ALL my darn meatballs!!

      • Kebbie says:

        It’s true, but I’ve read before that the queen will keep some food on her plate even when she’s done eating so that everyone else can continue.

  49. cherriepie84 says:

    Good for them! I hope they can get some solitude and enjoy their holidays without the intrusive media. If we don’t get a single “story” about them over the holidays, I would be happy for them….let them be.

  50. b says:

    Really not sure why this is news and really glad this article makes no reference to the Daily Mail head line today.

  51. b says:

    Really not sure why this is news and really glad this article makes no reference to the Daily Mail head line today.

  52. LaUnicaAngelina says:

    It’s not running away. It’s making a move to live your best life.

    Also, people shouldn’t expect a person of color to always be strong, resilient example of how to deal with bullshit. It’s not our job to be the tour guide of the minority experience to justify racism exists. We never forget because they won’t let’s us.

    • Valiantly Varnished says:

      THANK YOU. People still dont seem to get this. They expect Meghan to just “take it” because it’s not good “strategy”. This is her LIFE. Not a damn game. She is a new mother who wants to spend the holiday season with people who actually CARE about her well-being.

    • Guest2.0 says:

      This is M&H thriving not just surviving.

      • Guest says:

        rolls eyes – M&H have always thrived since their courtship, engagement, then marriage. Do not make a mockery of real people in this world who literally survive without ever thriving. Maybe do some charity work to gain perspective instead of just reading about your favourite famous people actually doing something to help change the world. Why don’t you do charity work too? What’s your excuse??

      • Guest2.0 says:

        @Guest. You don’t know me or what life I live. What I do or don’t do for others. So please don’t make sweeping generalizations. I don’t know what it is about Meghan’s statement of “ thriving, not just surviving” that seems to set people off. But if that statement doesn’t apply to your philosophy, so be it. But don’t knock others who happen to agree with it.

      • notasugarhere says:

        Guest2.0 I think it is the same rampant racist crowd who are going after Meghan in general. It bothers them that she’d reference a quote from another powerful, talented WOC (Maya Angelou).

    • HK9 says:

      Louder for the people in the back.

    • Green Desert says:

      Preach. The people saying they should grin and bear it, etc. need to have all the seats. Sometimes we as people of color don’t want to be in the presence of racists or people who are supposed to love us who don’t defend us against racists. *Shocker*

      Re: how specific their statement is, that others in the family have done this and that the queen is cool with it. If they didn’t say both of those things, those would be the two narratives in the despicable British tabloids. Ugh.

  53. MrsBanjo says:

    They’re not moving. They can’t move to the US or anywhere while Meghan is in the middle of her citizenship application.

    • Abby says:

      Anyone who thinks Meghan would give up her American citizenship at this point is delusional. That passport is going to be the Sussexes saving grace when they leave and they definitely will. Whether it be this year or in 5 years, they wont stay for wills charade for sure and I’m guessing not Charles either.

      • MrsBanjo says:

        Never said anything about Meghan giving up her American citizenship but okay.

        She’s currently in process of obtaining UK citizenship. If she moves away before that’s complete, that application is voided. Also, Harry will not leave the RF any time soon because to do so would put Andrew in as Regent for George should Charles and William die before the Queen. There’s no way in hell Harry would do that to George.

        There’s zero indication that Meghan and Harry want to leave. Rather, they’re clearly trying to do their work and maintain their sanity in process. Neither of them are the types to just immediately jump ship, even if that would be totally understandable given the racist bullshit they’re dealing with.

  54. Valiantly Varnished says:

    Can we please stop with the running away narrative?? They have the right to spend their first Christmas with their baby in a happy, positive environment. They have spent the last two Christmases at Sandringham. If Kate and Will can skip a Christmas every other year than the Sussexes can too. And again – stop asking Meghan to “fight”. She has been. Pretty well. Sis deserves a damn break for the holidays.

    • MellyMel says:

      Thank you! Like who would want to be around shady people (even if they’re family) during the holidays??

    • Beach Dreams says:

      Agreed. They spent time with the family for the last two holidays and they deserve to have their first one with Archie on their own terms. The media (and courtiers) are just made that money can’t be made off them and narratives can’t be created to benefit other members of the BRF.

  55. MellyMel says:

    I don’t see this as them ‘running away’. They’re choosing to stay away from toxicity and I don’t blame them one bit. The holidays should be a time to be around people you love and who love you. They also deserve to end the year on a more positive note

    • Bettyrose says:

      Agreed. Diana was adrift because the RF was all she had (and they had control of her children). Not so for Meg & Harry.

    • Beach Dreams says:

      I agree. They’re making a conscious and smart decision to surround themselves and baby Archie with positivity, rather than subject themselves to the viper’s nest waiting at Sandringham. This is a special time for them as a new family of three, of course they’d want to celebrate the holidays on their own terms.

  56. kerwood says:

    It’s Archie’s first Christmas. Why spend it with people who don’t like you AND a criminal ? People seem to forget that Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Spending Christmas at Sandringham is about the LEAST Christian thing the Sussexes could do. A Christmas full of love and family is the RIGHT thing to do.

    As far as ‘optics’ go, Meghan and Harry could spend the holidays working in a soup kitchen, feeding the poor and they would STILL be criticized. If you’re unhappy and feeling vulnerable, you need to do the things that will help heal you. This is a healing move for the Sussex family.

  57. notasugarhere says:

    Reminder to fellow posters. If we consider someone a troll, we can type only the word ‘troll’ as our comment to help Kaiser weed them out quickly.

  58. Marie says:

    The press are upset that they will not get to push their feud narrative, how much Meghan’s outfit cost, etc, etc

    This is a Archie’s first Christmas and they will never have that again so they should be able to spend it however they want. Doria has every right in the world to spend it with her only child and grandchild. The Queen has a very big family to keep her company.

    Harry hasn’t been at Balmoral since he was 15 and I have heard Christmas there is boring and stiff with formal dinners and outfit changes. I don’t blame them for wanting a different first Christmas for Archie. Harry has had to endure this for years, I think he deserves a break and experience a different Christmas.

    • Tourmaline says:

      About Harry and Balmoral, isn’t Balmoral where Harry learned that his mother had been killed in a car crash when he was 12 years old? Yeah it is perfectly understandable if he doesn’t like going up there.

    • Kebbie says:

      Wait, WHAT?! I thought Balmoral was an annual thing he always did except for this year! If he hasn’t been since he was a teenager, why on earth was anything made of it when they skipped? Wow.

      • Becks1 says:

        @Kebbie – I think he rarely goes, last year he and Meghan went to the Castle of Mey to stay with Charles (Queen Mother’s castle from the first season of the Crown, lol). I think they may have gone to Birkhall as well. So its not that he never goes to Scotland, and I think he prob has gone to Balmoral a few times, but its not a typical part of his August the way it is for some other royals.

    • notasugarhere says:

      Harry was pictured at Balmoral September 2016, driving to church with Eugenie. We do not know how long he stayed, but he was photographed that Sunday and doing engagements a day or two later in Aberdeen. It was near his birthday that year.

    • subber says:

      Christmas is at Sandringham, not Balmoral. Balmoral is for the summer holiday, and Harry and Meghan were reportedly there in 2017, and Harry was actually photographed there as recently as 2016.

  59. Bunny says:

    I’m wondering, since the Queen is in her 90s, Prince Phillip has retired, there are lots of great-grandchildren running about, and others are/have missed holidays in recent years; if holidays at Sandringham is as big a “thing” as it once was.

    A long, complicated day of festivities seems like a lot to ask for from two people in their 10th decade of life.

    I’m betting that the Queen is just fine with all of this.

  60. L84Tea says:

    My #1 question now…if W&K were planning to spend Christmas this year with the Middletons, will they keep those plans and enjoy their holiday since, in a sense, this is an “off” year for everyone? Or do they take advantage of the Sussex’s absence and gobble up all the limelight for themselves like perfect little royals who can do no wrong and always make time for Queenie?

    • Guest says:

      Well their Christmas plans last year were axed. They wanted to spend their Christmas with the Middletons, the Berkshire home was all decorated for the kids. But they had to do the Fab Four thing for the optics, PR and blah blah blah.

    • ira says:

      Harry and Meghan decided themselves that they don’t have any plan to attend Sandringham this year. Whatever the Cambridge do should not be their concern.

      • L84Tea says:

        You’re right, it absolutely shouldn’t. But this wouldn’t be the first time the Cams have seized an opportunity to turn lemons to lemonade for THEM, and I could see them doing it. BUT, I do hope they spend it with the Middletons if that’s what they were planning to do. I imagine it’s a lot more relaxing atmosphere anyway.

    • Kebbie says:

      I’m guessing they gobble up the limelight and make sure to be photographed with the Queen. That commercial flight pap walk comes to mind. Maybe the documentary has changed their approach, but they’ve never passed up on chances to score points on the Sussexes before.

    • Tourmaline says:

      A major difference between spending time with Kate’s family at Christmas and spending time with Meghan’s family at Christmas is that Meghan’s family does not live in England, in fact lives over 5,000 miles away from England.

      Even if Kate goes to Sandringham for Christmas Day she can easily spend the days before or after with her family at their home, or even get over to her family the same day, as they live only 3 or so hours away by car from Norfolk.

      Plus, Kate and Will own a mansion next door to Sandringham so it is a snap to host her relations there if they want to, again, those relations need only take a car drive of a few hours from their door to hers.

      The two situations aren’t really comparable.

      • L84Tea says:

        Specifically, I meant “will W&K do the pap stroll now even if they were not planning to originally”. The situation with the commercial flight was the perfect example of how they are capable of taking advantage of these little moments to come out looking “better”.

  61. February Pisces says:

    If William and Kate wanted they could have the middletons over at Amner Hall every year, do the Christmas church pap walk, have lunch the the RF and still spend time with the middletons. Amner Hall is only 2 miles from Sandringham. It’s also only two miles from houghton Hall lol. The Sussex’s don’t have that option, Christmas with the queen means staying at Sandringham as her guest. Even if Doria was invited I doubt she would want to go. I always feel sorry for Doria, she lives far away by herself, so I’m glad she’s getting to spend Xmas with them. Most people would not want to see their parent by themselves at Xmas. It’s ok for the Middleton family, they have each other, but I still wouldn’t begrudge Kate from wanting to spend Xmas with her family either.

  62. Rogue says:

    I read this fantastic article about the Sussexes holiday plan https://thenewdaily.com.au/entertainment/celebrity/2019/11/14/meghan-harry-christmas/amp/?__twitter_impression=true and what really stood out to me was this point “What also gets my goat is the notion Meghan, a woman, is now owned by the family of Harry, a man, and that being with his family somehow trumps being with hers, small and ordinary though it may be.”

    Anne’s children, the Cambridges, Camilla have all done Christmas away from Sandringham without this much concern trolling and backlash from the press and the Sussexes should be able to as well.

    • L84Tea says:

      THIS X 1000

    • February Pisces says:

      The word ‘own’ is key. I hate when people say ‘we pay for them’ because what they really mean is we ‘own’ them and want to control their lives and make them as miserable as possible, all because they are mad harry married a very beautiful charismatic biracial woman, instead of a dull, dreary girl with no personality and horse teeth.

  63. Le4Frimaire says:

    One take on this is that this is proof the Sussexes have been pushed out and the press and palace intrigues and smears have worked. On the other hand, maybe this is a desperately needed break for their own sanity and marriage, and after the family activities of Remembrance weekend, decided they can’t do this. The onus has been on them and only them to “ improve things”, and maybe they just want to cede the floor and remove themselves from the conversation. Who knows. Meghan probably misses her mother, maybe needs explore if the grass really is greener outside the Royal bubble to decide what to do next. I’m hoping this is a step back, rather then the first step out. A lot of emotional investment in this couple, from those who support them and even those who don’t. Everything they do is amplified to the point that it reflects on the crown, affects the crown, is about the crown and it’s a lot to place on them, considering where they are in the hierarchy. Wish them peace and love and a better 2020.

  64. Mandy says:

    Oh, I would give anything to be a fly on the wall at Sandringham with the royal family during Christmas! Can you even imagine?!
    Good for Henry and Meghan, though. I don’t blame them at all.

  65. KKC says:

    This is going to be very very bad for them if it ends of being the Queen or Phillips last Christmas.

    Not that I think the age/health of the senior royals should allow the BRF to hold them hostage for every holiday ahead of Meghans family, but I’d personally bring Doria over one more time just to get “Christmas with the Queen and Baby Archie” photos this season, and plot out a more reasonable trade off for 2020 forward. But that’s all crisis PR tactics, not based on personal feelings.

    • Tourmaline says:

      Nah. Queen and Phillip have lived long long lives, I can’t stand this pious guiltmongering of “they are so old…must dance attendance on them constantly….can’t risk missing their “Last Christmas” (cue WHAM! tune now).

    • MsIam says:

      If none of the other family has to dance to that tune, then neither should H&M. The rest of the BRF don’t seem to feel that they have to be in constant attendance with TQ and Prince Phillip so why are H&M forced to be beholden to that standard. That is the same argument that her despicable father tried to use, that he could die and never see his grandchild, blah, blah, blah.

  66. tomato80 says:

    What I don’t understand is why Charles is throwing H&M under the bus. I thought he had a decent relationship with Harry, better than with William, and liked Meghan.

    • February Pisces says:

      As soon as Harry filed that lawsuit I noticed a change. This lawsuit has the potential to drag all kinds of skeletons out of the RF closet. I think the press and the RF had some sort of verbal agreement or understanding. That is probably the reason why harry didn’t sue for phone hacking the first time round. But all that went out of the window with the constant harassment of Meghan. If it goes to trial and I think it will, it will be every man for himself, which means there will be a lot of throwing under the bus. Charles probably has a lot of skeletons in his closet and is worried.

    • Hope says:

      Charles is jealous of anyone else who gets attention. He’s as high-maintenance as they come. Also, he’s not above throwing Harry under the bus if it means he can get closer to William and the Cambridge kids who are closer in the line of succession.

      Harry’s role in that family has been to support his dad and brother, not the other way around and I can see the highly dysfunctional Windsors being resentful about Meghan changing that toxic dynamic.

  67. Lutfia Shetula says:

    I don’t understand what the big deal is. They are a new family blending together both their traditions. It seems that they work hard and should be able to decompress as they please. I would go nuts if I was required to not only work with my family EVERYDAY but then to spend all of my holidays with them too.

    The royals don’t seem to know how to chill and have a good time. Always plotting and scheming against each other. If Harry were to walk away from the “family business “ who would William have to have as a scapegoat?

    • MsIam says:

      That’s is why they call it “The Firm” I guess. They all act like a bunch of employees jockeying for a promotion instead of family. If I was H&M I would run for the hills.

      • Hope says:

        And it doesn’t say much about the Queen that this clearly works on her or that she may even encourage it.

  68. Tourmaline says:

    This is an actual line from the Richard Kay hatchet piece—I don’t know whether to laugh or cry

    ” ‘If they had intended to spend the holiday with Meghan’s father, I don’t think there would have been any complaint,’ a senior courtier says.”

    • kerwood says:

      That makes me want to vomit.

      It’s obvious they can’t stand the thought that Meghan, Harry and Archie might actually enjoy themselves away from Harry’s toxic, racist family featuring his pedophile uncle.

      The Sussex family has to suffer for committing the crime of not being White.

    • Rogue says:

      @Touramaline I saw that. It’s hard to know whether a courtier is really being quoted or it’s another journo because we all know journalists want a Markle Snr reunion for him to sell Meghan out with Archie pictures etc.

      But wouldn’t be surprised if a courtier did feel this way& it’s disgusting. Only white in-laws and her white parent matter. Doria comes last& has to work around everyone else to see her only daughter& grandchild.

      Part of this hysteria is BECAUSE Doria the black (and Archie’s only grandmother) parent is being centred in their plans.

      • Tourmaline says:

        It seems beyond parody—it is OK for her to spend Christmas elsewhere BUT ONLY IF SHE IS WITH THOMAS MARKLE. What.The.Hell.

      • February Pisces says:

        By quoting that it came from a courtier (whether they said it or not) means that they don’t mind actually going on record. Usually it would be a secret ‘source’. They are really showing their asses and taking their pettiness out in the open.

    • MsIam says:

      I’m laughing to keep from crying at this. Thomas Sr., the man who has no relationship with his other children and grandchildren, but boy Meghan should run to him so he won’t be lonely for Christmas. Personally though, I think that line is made up. I think Toxic Tom has been a big headache and embarrassment for all of the BRF so they don’t want to poke that bear.

  69. Jumpingthesnark says:

    Good choice fir them. I’m sure it will be so much more pleasant and happy with her Mom. I wonder too if they hVent heard that sh!t as in more public revelations/ investigations into pedo Andy are about to happen and they just really ar not interested in doing Xmas church walk and sit down dinner with him? Remember, Andy recently hired some big time PR fixer who then promptly quit after a month, which to me seems to indicate that the info that is out there is just the tipof the iceberg and not even a spin doctor wants anything to do with it.
    M and H have their own contacts now, and they might just not want anything to do with Andy, partly becUse it is the right thing to do and partly fir the sake of not getting their charity work caught up in what could be the biggest RF scandal of a very long time.

  70. Lala11_7 says:

    Those are two, highly intelligent and VERY self aware human beings…I truly believe that Harry & Meghan are exercising a VERY necessary option and they don’t want to be an integral part of the standard protocol regarding the Royal Family….To me, Harry’s Mama’s biggest problem was that she couldn’t control the narrative regarding so much about her own life…It looks like Harry is taking the necessary steps to NOT make that mistake….

    The further away he is from the Royal Family’s “Inner “Perverted” Circle”…the more empowered he and his family will become….and it will be healthier…

    Plus…let’s be honest…

    Who the hell wants to spend Christmas with a cheating ass brother…when you KNOW they had arguments about William doing to Kate what Charles did to their Mama…and an Uncle that raped children…along with a Grandmother who co-signed on throwing his beloved under SEVERAL double-decker buses…

    BUMP THAT NOISE!

    • Lala11_7 says:

      One last thing…

      A Royal family member doesn’t make a secret trip to the Southside of Chicago…to speak to students at my old high school…if that Royal plans on walking the “company line”…

    • Kebbie says:

      The further away they are from the royal family, the less those courtiers can leak negative quotes about them. Initially it’ll be how they have separated themselves and how awful that is, but there won’t be stories about Kate crying and Meghan wanting air fresheners and what Meghan wants, she gets, tiaras, etc. The closer they are to their family, the more those stories are leaked to prop Will and Kate up and provide distraction from Andrew. All those diva stories mysteriously stopped once they separated their communications from Kensington and moved to Windsor.

      Spending Christmas in Sandringham would just provide more fodder for the royal reporters. They can’t make up stories if Christmas is just Harry, Meghan, Doria, and Archie.

      • notasugarhere says:

        I’m sure the RRs will make up plenty of stories about the four of them re. Thanksgiving and Christmas.

  71. SophieP says:

    It’s their first Christmas as a family…maybe they want to enjoy it vs dealing with all the foolishness of the Royal Family. Meghan has spent two Christmas with them. I bet she’s tired of all the who walks in the room first and who to and not to curtsy. Maybe they just want to have a no frills relaxing first Christmas with Archie. One minute the Brits are saying they’re insignificant the next minute they’re saying the RF will END if Harry/Meghan doesn’t show up for Christmas.

  72. Velvet Elvis says:

    I’m sure I’ll get jumped for this but I guess I’m the only one here disappointed by this news. I really enjoy seeing the Christmas pap walk. And I feel like skipping Christmas at Sandringham at this time feeds into the message that H&M have gone rogue and are pulling away from the royal family, and it invites even more scrutiny and negative feelings toward them. I feel like they really need to bite the bullet, see this as a royal duty and jump on a chance for some good PR.

    • Kebbie says:

      I doubt they’d end up with any good pr. I’m guessing the tabloids would make up stories about tense interactions and family divide, maybe throw in how the queen reprimanded them for how they’ve dealt with the criticism. Or they’d write about how they didn’t stay long enough or how Meghan broke some kind of ambiguous protocol. Body language experts would analyze the photos for proof of a rift. They’ve got their narratives about Harry and Meghan, they’re not going to suddenly change them.

      I don’t think Meghan and Harry want people to think everything is great between them and the family. Everything they do has pointed to things not being well. They don’t seem to want to carry on that facade.

  73. yinyang says:

    All the money and jewels in the world wouldn’t make me put up with the humiliation the British Press and Royal Family have put meghan through. Harry’s lucky Meghan is sticking through it. No way.

  74. MsIam says:

    You know, my tinfoil theory is that the media are mad because they had all these pre-written stories about Kate and Meghan feuding at Sandringham and refusing to eat with each and the Queen giving H&M a piece of her mind about their “behavior”. Now that we know they won’t be there, media will have to toss all those stories out the window. Means they might have to do some work over Christmas break, now that all of their pre-written stuff is no good. Happy Holidays, Media!

  75. ChillyWilly says:

    Good for them! They will have such a nice, relaxing, private, non-racist and pedo free holiday with Doria. Life is too damn short to spend time with creeps even if they are your relatives.

  76. mara says:

    Life is too short to spend time with toxic relatives. I had the best Mom and Dad, but my siblings were varying degrees of cray cray, with alcoholism thrown in with the psych issues. Once my parents passed away, my daughter, hubby and I cut off the siblings. Best move ever. Our lives instantly became peaceful, and we spent our holidays however we wished. Sadly, my husband died three short years after my parents died, but those last years were wonderful and happy years. I applaud Harry and Meghan for seeking out peace in their lives.

  77. tmbg says:

    I think the whole royal concept is just plain nuts. What makes Elizabeth so special that she has to be treated like a deity? I can’t believe people go for this nonsense nowadays. Then again, I live in a country that elected Donald Trump to lead it, so perhaps I should hold my tongue on what’s madness and what isn’t.

    Anyway, good for the Sussexes! I hope they have a warm, cozy Christmas with Doria and friends.

  78. Sarah I the first sarah says:

    So speaking of strategy, how strategic would it be in the long run to have the pictures of Harry and Meaghan side by side with someone in the family who is non-officially being accused and likely to come to legal terms with child trafficking and abuse. I am sure they do not approve, and probably do not approve of the steps to protect or whitewash Andrew. I think it’s a good move, and to have the focus totally on their new son and family and peace and happiness. I mean, they have been crammed on the balcony with Andrew, and to stand alongside is tantamount to approval. I approve of their move. I want new pictures of that little baby I’ve fallen in love with.

  79. Mel says:

    It’s really not that deep, Doria’s first grandchild from her only child who lives overseas. They are with his family all the time, why wouldn’t she want to be with her Mom and get a drama/ toxicity break?

  80. morrigan01 says:

    You know, aside from everything else going on with possible backstabbing family members and courtiers, I agree with some that another reason Harry and Meghan likely aren’t doing the Sandringham thing is they likely don’t want to be photographed with Andrew. It’s one thing to have to be there with him at official events like the Remembrance Day stuff. They don’t really have a choice in that. However, they DO have a choice about associating with him during family events and get togethers.

    A picture is worth a thousand words. Them spending time with Andrew during the holidays would be a bad one. (Plus I think Andrew might have had a hand in many of the smears the tabs did about Meghan like the tiara nonsense.)

  81. blunt talker says:

    I liked a lot of the comments stated above. The one thing is very true this is Doria’s only only only only only child. This is Doria’s only only only only only grandchild. If Meghan and Harry have spent the last 2 Christmas holidays with the Queen, why in the world would anyone begrudge the Sussexes a holiday with Doria. Anyone who does is very unchristian, evil, and hateful. My mother loved us so much when we can to Xmas dinner and opened presents at her house. Joy on my mother’s face is something that will be a part of my memory forever. She enjoyed having her children and grandchildren at her house because we did not get to visit as often as she would like but she never complained and treasured seeing us with all the love within her being. This is what Ms. Doria want this holiday and I am happy she will get to do so.

  82. Rogue says:

    Exactly this Blunt Talker. This move could be family feud related but it could also simply be wanting to celebrate first festive season with Doria-Archie’s only grandmother who unlike Harry’s relatives doesnt live in the UK so doesn’t have the chance to see him as much. It’s very telling how debates on UK tv are saying Harry& meghan should put family first! Clearly to some including apparently some courtiers, Doria isn’t family. Or she should come to Sandringham (no idea if she would be invited or not) so press can get their Christmas pap stroll. Apparently Doria is just as much owned by the British public& should do things at the media’s whim.

    Speaking of Andrew he’s done a ‘no-holds barred’ interview to discuss Epstein that was filmed at Buckingham Palace and will air in the UK on Saturday.

  83. yinyang says:

    Wow the Queen reminds of the unbearable diva mother in law that HAS to have christmas a her place every year.

  84. MeghanNotMarkle says:

    Good for them. Why spend Christmas with people who consistently throw them under the bus when they could be in a loving environment with Doria? That just makes more sense. And as others have pointed out, other members of the BRF have missed Sandringham Christmas so it’s not like this is some shocking first-time break from tradition. The media is just looking for any inch they can make into a mile.

  85. Emelia says:

    What I would wish for Meghan and Harry is that rented a beautiful home in an exclusive neighborhood in LA. That they invited Doria and friends over for the Holidays. That Meghan could show Harry “her” LA without the British Press and that the American Press leave them be. At the end of their 6 weeks or so they return back to their duties ready take on the world and Harry’s CRAZY Family.

  86. Sass says:

    Jfc it took me three minutes to scroll to the bottom.

    I think it’s unfair to accuse the Sussexes of running away. I unfortunately have toxic relatives in great abundance as well as toxic in laws and my husband and I made a choice over a decade ago that if they were going to treat us like shit and our children like shit then we weren’t going to be around them. Sometimes it is lonely but as I’ve said before I would rather surround myself with people who support us and like us, not judgmental jerks who talk badly about us when we aren’t around.

    Meghan is authentic. She doesn’t care for false niceties. I like her more and more.