Why Was Meghan Markle Missing From The Group Balcony Appearance At The Trooping The Colour?

This weekend saw Trooping the Colour, the Queen’s official birthday celebrations, seeing the royal family gather from far and wide to mark the date with a parade.

While the Cambridge family was expected to attend, Prince Louis made news for his first official royal appearance. But it was Meghan Markle who really hit headlines, with the Duchess of Sussex breaking her maternity leave to make a surprise appearance.

Sitting alongside the Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Harry and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Meghan took part in the carriage procession, proving herself to be a fully fledged member of the royal family.

Royal fans were confused however to see Meghan wasn’t present at the first group appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony after the procession, only joining the royals later.

While some speculated that Meghan could have been tending to baby Archie behind the scenes, it is thought that the newborn wasn't in attendance and that Meghan was instead most-likely doing a quick wardrobe-change, emerging without her jacket.

Meghan's appearance was surprising, with the Duchess still in her maternity leave and not taking on any royal duties until the end of summer, but given her closeness with the Queen, it's hardly surprising that she made an exception.

We're wishing Meghan Markle a relaxing rest of maternity leave!

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. After working at Marie Claire UK for seven years - rising from intern to Features Editor - she is now a freelance contributor to the News and Features section.

In 2021, Jenny was named as a winner on the PPA's '30 under 30' list, and was also listed as a rising star in journalism.