Harry's Return for Prince Philip's Funeral: The Lapse in Protocol and Global Controversy

When Prince Philip passed away on April 9, 2021, Harry was already residing in Montecito, California. He returned to the UK to attend the funeral, and then resumed his life in Los Angeles afterward. This event sparked a wave of discussions and debates about royal protocol, privilege, and the impact of social distancing measures.

The Discrepancy in Participation

Interestingly, Harry’s return from Los Angeles to the UK was met with some skepticism and criticism. While Harry was present for the funeral, his American partner, Meghan, did not travel to the UK. This disparity in their attendance drew mixed reactions from the public, with many questioning the legitimacy of their roles within the royal family.

Detailed Timeline and Plans for the Funeral

Harry has since returned to the UK for the funeral, where he is currently isolating. The funeral is set to take place at 15:00 GMT (3:00 PM UK time) at Windsor Castle. As Prince Philip was known for his strict adherence to protocol, it is anticipated that the event will commence promptly.

Given the proximity of Windsor Castle to Heathrow Airport, it is expected that Harry will return to Los Angeles on the evening of Saturday, flying back with a loyal entourage. In fact, an army of volunteers is anticipated to assist with the transfer from Heathrow to Los Angeles, ensuring a smooth process for the heir apparent.

Royal Privilege and Public Reaction

Harry’s return and his swift re-entry into the jet-setting lifestyle drew criticism for the apparent lack of quarantine period. Unlike the general public, which must adhere to strict quarantine rules, the prince is afforded tremendous privilege. This exemption from the norm has led to a significant amount of backlash and public outcry, highlighting the perceived gap between the royal family and the rest of the populace.

According to reports, Harry arrived at Heathrow via a British Airways flight, traveling in first class. He is currently self-isolating at Frogmore Cottage, the same residence he shared with Meghan Markle.

While the world awaits to see Harry at the funeral, the spotlight is likely to be on his behavior and privilege rather than the historical significance of the event. This focus on Harry’s actions is quintessential of the contemporary debates surrounding the royal family and their modern relevance.

As the world watches, the Harry Philip Philip funeral becomes not just a somber affair, but a reflection of the broader societal issues surrounding privilege, protocol, and the modern royal family.