The protocol for the Queen’s passing and the state funeral that followed had been carefully orchestrated over decades.
Known as ‘Operation London Bridge’, this extensive plan outlined every possible scenario surrounding her death in meticulous detail.
Despite stepping away from royal duties in early 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had also prepared for the solemn day.
According to a royal book, the couple had always intended to be by the Queen’s side together in her final moments.
However, when Queen Elizabeth II passed away unexpectedly at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on September 8, 2022, only Prince Harry made the journey to be with the Royal Family.
Despite already being in the UK for charity events, Meghan Markle did not accompany him to Scotland. Initially, a spokesperson for the Sussexes confirmed they would travel together, but Meghan was later left out due to an unspecified “change of plans.”
Reports suggested that then-Prince Charles had requested Meghan to stay behind, allowing Harry to visit his grandmother alone—similar to what was reportedly asked of Kate Middleton.
However, a recent biography of King Charles revealed a different story: Kate had not been asked to stay home but had instead made that decision herself.