Prince Charles will walk Meghan Markle down the aisle in her father's absence
The mystery over who will walk Meghan Markle down the aisle at the royal wedding is over. One day after issuing a statement that the bride’s father, Thomas Markle Sr., would “sadly” be unable to attend the wedding because of health concerns, Kensington Palace has confirmed that Prince Harry‘s father, Prince Charles, will take his place.
An update on the #RoyalWedding: pic.twitter.com/wfJ6ZFyzHi
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) May 18, 2018
It’s not the first time the future king has stepped up on someone’s wedding day. In 2016, he walked Alexandra Knatchbull, goddaughter of his late ex-wife Princess Diana, down the aisle as her own father, his close friend Lord Brabourne, was too ill to fulfill the tradition.
Many have responded to the announcement with words of respect for the groom’s father, who reportedly hosted Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, for tea this week. But some have expressed disappointment that the royals aren’t bucking tradition by having Ragland herself do the honors.
Great choice although I was rooting for her mom. Prince Charles doesn't have a daughter so he must be very happy with the honor #Tomorrow
— Lady Books (@thassia_ps) May 18, 2018
Why doesn't her mom walk her down the aisle? That makes more sense than Charles, imho.
— Peter Cetera Rocks!! (@satinnickel) May 18, 2018
No, it should of been her Mum to do it. She brought her up and she should do it. In general I think the mother's should do it anyway, after all in most situations the mother does everything for their child over the father. (In my experiences)
— Aimee Dey (@xxAimeeRoxyxx) May 18, 2018
Lovely but what about her mom? I had mine walk me down the aisle
— Sandra Mackenzie (@sandrajforde) May 18, 2018
While Ragland won’t be turning a patriarchal practice on its head, as some had hoped, the consensus is that having Prince Charles participate is a thoughtful gesture. Many have noted that it’s especially meaningful as he does not have daughters of his own.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to say “I do” on Saturday, May 19, at Windsor Castle. Yahoo will cover the historic event live from London from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. BST (5 a.m. to 10 a.m. ET). Bookmark this link to follow along LIVE.
Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:
It’s happening: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry arrive in Windsor for their wedding rehearsal
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Who is Lady Jane Fellowes, who will have a major role at the royal wedding?
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