Prince Harry declined the invitation to the Duke of Westminster’s highly anticipated wedding with Olivia Henson. The decision was made in mutual understanding with his close friend, Hugh Grosvenor.
The Duke of Sussex cited potential awkwardness due to ongoing royal family drama if he and his wife, Meghan, attended. The wedding, set for June 7 at Chester Cathedral in northern England, is expected to be a lavish affair with prominent guests, including Prince William, who will serve as an usher
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An insider close to the bride and groom tells PEOPLE that Harry and the Duke of Westminster mutually made the agreement. The decision certainly avoided the inevitable clamor had estranged brothers Prince William, 41, and Prince Harry both attended the nuptials, eliminating the possibility of the big day being overshadowed for the couple.
Harry’s absence ensures that the event won’t be overshadowed by the presence of both estranged brothers. Transatlantic travel to the U.K. poses security challenges for Harry, given his official support was removed after stepping back from royal duties and relocating to California.
Despite this, Hugh Grosvenor, godfather to both Prince Harry’s son, Prince Archie, and Prince William’s son, Prince George, expresses his love and support for the couple on their special day
