- King Charles and Queen Camilla were notably absent from Kate Middleton’s fifth annual Christmas carol service.
- This isn’t unusual, since they haven’t attended the event since 2022.
- The monarchs have had a packed week, including hosting Germany’s president and first lady for a state visit and banquet.
It’s a big day at Westminster Abbey, folks! December 5 marks Kate Middleton’s fifth annual Christmas carol service, and the Prince and Princess of Wales were joined by their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, marking their first public appearance in six months (!). Notably absent from the event (along with Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice): Kate’s in-laws, King Charles and Queen Camilla.
No official statement was given regarding their absence, but considering Charles and Camilla haven’t attended Kate’s “Together at Christmas” carol concert since 2022 (which was dedicated to the late Queen Elizabeth), their absence isn’t all that surprising.
One possible theory for why they choose to skip the service every year, as previously reported by People: King Charles doesn’t want to steal the spotlight by attending, since the service is Kate’s passion project.
Let’s also not forget that it’s been a busy week for the monarchs. Earlier this week, they hosted Germany’s President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, First Lady Elke Büdenbender, for a state visit, which of course included an elaborate banquet.
Plus, the King’s health isn’t in the best state right now. This ^^ all come amid reports that Charles “wants a special last Christmas in case it’s his last.”
As a source recently told Us Weekly, Charles still plans to join the family on their annual Christmas walk and to record his annual speech, but beyond that, he simply plans to relax and enjoy himself. “Nothing would stop Charles from doing that,” a source said of the speech. “He will do everything expected of him and more. His health isn’t the best. They’re taking it day by day.”
Speaking of royal Christmas plans, it doesn’t sound like the royals are planning to include Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as they’re apparently still upset that the Sussexes attended Kris Jenner’s birthday party. More on that, below.
