In a recent episode of South Park, creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone took aim at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, using fictional versions of the couple to deliver their satirical punches.
The episode featured a number of hidden jokes and references, including a nod to the infamous candle scandal that occurred at the late Queen’s funeral.
The spoof episode begins with a fictionalized version of the late Queen’s funeral, with a twist – the royal family is now Canadian.
The Canadian prince and princess, representing Harry and Meghan, are met with boos from the rest of the royals due to their previous criticisms of the Canadian monarchy.
As they make their way down the aisle, viewers with keen eyes noticed a candle that bears a striking resemblance to the one used at Queen Elizabeth’s actual funeral.
During the real funeral, Meghan found herself almost completely obscured by a giant candle, leading some to speculate that her seating arrangement in the upper seat of Westminster Abbey was a deliberate snub.
The moment was widely seen during the BBC’s live coverage, where Meghan’s face was partially hidden by a wide-brimmed hat and further covered by the thick yellow church candles.
She stood between Prince Harry and Princess Beatrice, singing a hymn behind King Charles III and other senior royals, including Vice Admiral Timothy Lawrence, Princess Anne’s husband.
While there is no evidence to suggest that the placement of the candle was intentionally meant to obscure Meghan’s face, South Park couldn’t resist poking fun at the situation by ensuring a visible candle as the Prince and Princess of Canada entered the funeral service.
Eagle-eyed viewers took to Twitter to share their observations after spotting the candle in one of the opening scenes.
Looking ahead, royal expert Victoria Arbiter predicts that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may face a seating hierarchy at King Charles III’s coronation, with officials likely following past precedent.
According to Arbiter, the royals typically defer to tradition and protocol, so a similar seating plan to the Jubilee is expected if the Sussexes choose to attend.
The existing protocol determines seating arrangements based on hierarchy and whether or not individuals are working royals.
However, given Harry’s status as the King’s son, he may be granted a more central seat due to his immediate family connection.
Reflecting on the couple’s presence at last year’s Platinum Jubilee, Arbiter noted that their attendance was well managed and suited their new position within the family.
However, she emphasized that the coronation should not revolve around keeping Harry and Meghan happy, and everyone will be expected to simply get on with it.
Considering the response to their recent complaints, it is hoped that they will choose not to air any potential grievances during the event.
South Park’s latest episode serves as a reminder that the candle scandal at the late Queen’s funeral continues to capture public attention, even finding its way into popular culture.
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle navigate their roles within the royal family, all eyes will be on them as they potentially attend future events, including King Charles III’s coronation.