The Queen had four photos on display during last year’s Christmas speech, and royal commentators were quick to point out there was no sign of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. Commenting on the commotion, a royal expert has suggested the Sussexes’ overreacted to being excluded from the photo line up last year.
Richard Fitzwilliams told Express.co.uk ahead of this year’s speech: “Regarding the photographs, we always show interest the fact that the Sussexes were far too touchy last year.
“It was simply the line of succession and that was why they didn’t feature.
“A lot has been made of this, of course, there will be great interest because there was interest last year.”
“It’s impossible to know what theme she will choose for photographs this year but I think they [Meghan and Harry] were too touchy.”
In 2019, four photos were on display throughout the Queen’s annual Christmas speech, which gave a nod to those directly in line to the throne.
The first was a recent picture of Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Charles – who is first in line to the throne.
To the right of this photograph, a family photo of the Cambridge’s features, with Prince William, second in line to the throne, shown beaming in the centre.
Also on the table was a black and white photo of the Queen’s father, King George VI.
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The snap of the Duke of Edinburgh sat next to a lavish bouquet of red and white flowers.
A beautifully lit Christmas tree was positioned behind the monarch.
The Queen focused entirely on the coronavirus pandemic this year.
Acknowledging this will be a day of grief and solitude for many, the Queen – who has been self-isolating with Prince Philip for the most part of 2020 – said: “Of course, for many, this time of year will be tinged with sadness: some mourning the loss of those dear to them, and others missing friends and family members distanced for safety, when all they’d really want for Christmas is a simple hug or a squeeze of the hand.
“If you are among them, you are not alone, and let me assure you of my thoughts and prayers.
“The Bible tells how a star appeared in the sky, its light guiding the shepherds and wise men to the scene of Jesus’s birth.
“Let the light of Christmas – the spirit of selflessness, love and above all hope – guide us in the times ahead.”
