Despite the pearl-clutching from horrified scolds lamenting the disregard for tradition — yawn — this isn’t unprecedented: In 1936, King Edward VIII abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an American socialite who had two ex-husbands by the time they tied the knot. British royal drama is nothing new; just ask Henry VIII.
To add to the intrigue: Harry and Meghan seemingly did everything exactly on their terms. They announced the move when they wanted and against Queen Elizabeth’s express wishes. Buckingham Palace released a terse statement: “Discussions with the duke and duchess of Sussex are at an early stage.” The queen is reportedly deeply disappointed and Princes Charles and William are “incandescent with rage.”
Isn’t the spectacle just tantalizing? It’s so deliciously fitting that the saboteur of the royal family, the thorn in Buckingham Palace’s side, is an American. The woman taking on the monarchy is a quintessential California girl.
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