Why Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stood at the back during Trooping the Colour

At this year’s Trooping the Colour, fans noticed Meghan Markle and Prince Harry standing at the back of the balcony. It turns out the reason for this is simple...

The positioning of those on the balcony has nothing to do with any supposed ‘feuds’, but rather tradition. Because the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are in direct line to the throne, they were spotted at the front of the balcony with their three children.

Prince Harry is now sixth in line, with month-old son Archie in seventh. Because of this, Harry and Meghan weren’t out in front as they’re not direct successors to the throne, like William and Kate. In front of the Sussex’s was Prince Andrew, eighth in line, for a different reason.

Prince Andrew got to stand at the front because he was accompanying the Queen for her official birthday. Prince Philip has now retired from public duties, so he didn’t attend Trooping the Colour. That explains why he was closer despite being further down the line.

Royal Expert Jodie Little has explained this situation, assuring that it’s not an offensive decision and it's all done for a reason. ‘Meghan was not as prominent perhaps as some people might have expected, but there’s a pecking order.’

‘There was no slight intended, but William being the older, more senior brother would go out first with his wife.’

Life in the royal family is full of traditions, and Trooping the Colour is no exception to this. The event itself is based off tradition, as it’s become common for the monarch to have a second birthday in the summer. The well-known event dates back to 1748, and is now watched by millions across the UK. For royal fans, it's one of the biggest events of the year.

As the family grows, fans should expect to see more people appearing on the balcony for years to come. Prince Louis made his debut this year and stole the show, so perhaps we’ll be seeing Master Archie at 2020’s Trooping the Colour.