Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey revealed some surprising details about their wedding.
According to Meghan, she and Harry actually tied the knot in their backyard before the lavish public ceremony at Windsor Castle on May 19th, 2018.
However, the Archbishop of Canterbury has now confirmed that the couple’s backyard ceremony was not legally binding.
In his memoir “Spare,” Harry shared that the Archbishop performed the official part of the ceremony, declaring them the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, titles bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II.
He also mentioned that the Archbishop joined them until death do them part, even though a similar ceremony had already taken place in their garden a few days earlier.
This small ceremony was an intimate affair, with only the couple, their dogs Guy and Pula, and no other witnesses.
While it held great significance for them personally, it was unofficial and non-binding in the eyes of the law.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, however, clarified that the legal wedding took place on the Saturday at St. George’s Chapel, witnessed by millions around the world.
He emphasized that he signed the wedding certificate, a legal document, and would have committed a serious criminal offense if he had knowingly signed a false document.
He also mentioned having private and pastoral meetings with the Duke and Duchess before the wedding, but did not disclose any further details.
Stephen Borton, who helped draw up the wedding license, dismissed Meghan’s claims, stating that she was confused and misinformed.
He explained that the special license enabled the couple to marry at St. George’s Chapel, and what transpired there on May 19th, 2018, was the official wedding recognized by the Church of England and the law.
Borton speculated that Meghan and Harry may have exchanged personal vows during a rehearsal or a simple ceremony, but it was not the legally binding event.
Critics of the couple were quick to voice their opinions on social media.
Some questioned Harry’s understanding of consecration and marriage, while others pointed out that the Archbishop did not bestow the titles of Duke and Duchess upon them but rather officiated their marriage.
They also highlighted that Meghan’s title as Duchess was a courtesy title given through marriage, not a bestowed honor.
These comments reflected a growing sentiment that the couple’s claims were filled with lies, inaccuracies, and disrespect.
The revelations from Meghan and Harry’s interview have certainly caused a stir, challenging the narrative surrounding their wedding.
While their backyard ceremony held personal significance, it is now clear that the legal wedding took place at St. George’s Chapel.
The complexities and contradictions surrounding this event continue to fuel debates and discussions among royal fans and critics alike.