Prince Harry Jokes About Royal Life, Remains Silent on Father’s Health
Prince Harry delivered remarks laced with playful jabs at the Royal Family while addressing the British American business Council of Los Angeles at their 65th Christmas luncheon on Friday.The Duke of Sussex’s speech covered a range of topics, including the World Cup, British and American culture, and the history of American independence.
Referencing the popular television series Downton Abbey, Harry quipped, “People sometimes ask if growing up with the royal family was a bit like Julian’s Downton Abbey – yeah. But only one of those worlds is filled with drama, intrigue, elaborate dinners, marriages to Americans and the other is a TV show.”
He also addressed the topic of American independence, stating, “It’s a new world to me, celebrating independence from Britain and more specifically, independence from my great, great, great, great, great great grandfather.” He added, “But look, I don’t take it personally and nor should you, but it does feel oddly reminiscent.”
Harry then noted the numerous places in America named after British towns and cities, including Boston, Massachusetts and Lincolnshire, england; Manchester, New Hampshire and England; Birmingham, Alabama and England; and Richmond, Virginia and England. He expressed confusion over the practice, questioning, “I’ve never quite understood why they did that. It surely can’t be because it reminded them of their hometowns.”
Notably, Prince Harry did not mention his wife, Meghan Markle, during the speech. The omission comes amidst reports that Meghan’s father, Thomas Markle, is seriously ill in a hospital in the Philippines and recently underwent surgery resulting in a leg amputation.
A spokesperson for Meghan confirmed that the Duchess has contacted her father regarding his health.Meghan has been estranged from Thomas markle since 2018, following his involvement with photographers who were paid for staged photos prior to the royal wedding. While he initially cited health concerns as the reason for not attending the wedding, he has since been publicly critical of Meghan in numerous media interviews. In a past interview, he stated, “I think they’re both turning into lost souls at this point,” and added, “I don’t know what they’re looking for. I don’t think they know what they’re looking for.”
