King Charles III sent social
media into a frenzy on Friday when he mentioned Meghan Markle during his address
to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth following the death of Queen
Elizabeth II.
The new king spoke about his
mother’s legacy before touting members of the royal family, including his son
Prince Harry and his American wife. Markle, who became the Duchess of
Sussex when she married Harry in May 2018 at Windsor Castle, has been the
center of controversy as many believe she’s responsible for the couple’s 2020
departures from royal duties, move to America and ongoing family
infighting.
“I want to also express
my love for Harry and Meghan, as they continue to build their lives
overseas,” King Charles III said before quickly moving on.
“Did he not refer
to them as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex? Did he say, Prince Harry and Meghan
Markle? This is why I don’t like this man he’s insidious. Even if it was
written that way he should have changed it in his speech,” one critic
wrote.
National World commercial
editor Graham Walker called it a “beautiful, loving and stoic
debut speech,” noting it “got me when he not only name-checked new
Prince of Wales William and Kate but wanted to ‘express my love for Harry and
Megan [sic], as they build their lives overseas.’”
Variety reporter K.J.
Yossman asked, “Is it significant King Charles said he was making Kate and
William the Prince and Princess of Wales but didn’t mention Harry and Meghan’s
titles *at all*? I know they’re not getting new titles but could they be
stripped of their current ones?”
Writer Chris Wray added,
“Outstanding speech. One that shows the kings beliefs and priorities
remain the same as they have for a long time, one that shows where he stands on
so many things, and one where me makes a strong point to show his support to
Harry & Meghan.”
“Wow. I wasn’t expecting
a shout-out to [Meghan] and Harry. Me-thinks times are gonna change under
him,” another user wrote.
