Prince Philip reportedly didn’t hold back his feelings during his grandson’s wedding. Grant Harold, who used to be King Charles’ butler, shared that after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle exchanged vows, Philip looked relieved, or maybe it was more than that. He supposedly told the Queen, “Thank you f— it’s over.” Such colorful language isn’t surprising for the Duke of Edinburgh, known for his candid remarks.
Once the ceremony finished, Harold recounted, the newlyweds, along with the royal family, exited the chapel with smiles. The presence of both the late Queen Elizabeth II and Philip, was of course noteworthy, as it was a significant day back in 2018 when Harry and Meghan tied the knot at St. George’s Chapel.
Many royal experts have weighed in on this incident, suggesting that it’s understandable considering Philip’s age and health at the time. He was 96 and had just come out of surgery, which likely affected his mood. British royal analyst Hilary Fordwich pointed out that being in pain and tired wouldn’t make anyone feel their best during such an event.
Helena Chard, a broadcaster, remarked on Philip’s notorious style of humor, indicating that he often made inappropriate comments. She highlighted that his remarks were never really aimed personally at Harry and Meghan but were, well, just his way.
Harold emphasized that those familiar with Philip’s humor knew he often spoke his mind without a filter. People who knew him well understood that such comments were his way of expressing himself, maybe somewhat carelessly but reflectively of his character.
It’s worth noting that Philip spent over seven decades supporting the Queen, who affectionately called him her rock in public. His time with her was filled with both trials and tribulations, but they remained united throughout their lives.
After stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Harry and Meghan expressed a sense of disenchantment with the British media and felt unsupported by the royal establishment. They moved to California, a decision that was met with mixed feelings by the royal family.
In his 2023 memoir, “Spare,” Harry opened up about family dynamics, stating that he felt at times the family played favorites with the press. He spoke critically of Queen Camilla’s efforts to polish her image, expressing that he and his brother had once asked their father against marrying her.
Harold mentioned that while he was surprised by Harry’s revelations, he had observed the family dynamic firsthand. He recounted moments of the family together—having dinner, sharing drinks, and enjoying casual moments—which he felt contradicted the narrative of them being disconnected.
In his remarks about William, he observed that both he and Kate made efforts to keep Harry included in activities, emphasizing that Harry wasn’t sidelined as some narratives suggest.
It’s clear that the dynamics within the royal family are quite complex, with many emotions surfacing. And, in a way, it seems this wedding day, for all its grandeur, encapsulated both tradition and a glimpse of the personal struggles that often remain behind palace walls.
