King Charles issues emotional message after Harry, Meghan Christmas snub

King Charles, who marked his first Christmas with the royal family following his cancer diagnosis, released an emotional message after he was left heartbroken by his estranged son Prince Harry’s brutal decision.

The monarch, who is a doting grandfather to Prince William and Kate Middleton’s three children, seemingly had ardent wish to finally have one Christmas with his grandkids, Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three.

Given the strained relationship between his youngest son Prince Harry, Charles hasn’t seen Archie and Lilibet in person but he had hoped to change that this year, especially after his health crisis.

However, Harry and his wife Meghan Markle planned on their ‘special’ holiday celebration in Montecito as the royal family reunited at Sandringham as per their annual tradition.

Following the update, King Charles’ office released a rare video of the monarch preparing for his speech. In the video clip, as the crew prepares for broadcast, Charles is seen rehearsing emotionally, the words “most joyful and peaceful Christmas”.

The caption for the video read, “A special glimpse into the incredible talent, creativity, and teamwork that brings The King’s Christmas Broadcast to life.”

Previously a source revealed that there was “no better time than the festive period to bring families together”.

“King Charles has expressed his wishes to see his grandchildren,” the insider told The Mirror.

“There is no feeling like being a grandparent and it is a role King Charles relishes,” they continued. “It is his hope for his family to be reunited and there's no better way than spending quality time with his grandchildren at Christmas. It would be truly special.”