ROYAL FAMILY
King Charles’ surprise Christmas Day guest insinuates wedding rumors among royal circles for 2025….See More

As no surprise, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not attend the Christmas Day ceremony
This year’s Christmas at Sandringham brought an air of change and tradition. With King Charles at the helm, the festivities reflected both continuity and adaptation. Reports of the monarch’s health, while not alarming, have sparked speculation about the future of the royal family. His steady leadership ensured a warm celebration attended by close family members. Notably absent, however, were the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, further highlighting the growing rift between the royals.
A major highlight of this year’s festivities was the surprise presence of Eleanor Ekserdjian, the girlfriend of Samuel Chatto, Princess Margaret’s grandson. Samuel, a 28-year-old artist known for his pottery, was allowed to invite Eleanor to Sandringham, something Meghan Markle did before, breaking an old royal tradition. The couple have been together since 2021, and their inclusion in such a significant family gathering has sparked widespread speculation about an imminent royal wedding, according the Daily Mail.
Eleanor, who is also an artist, comes from a distinguished family and has often depicted Samuel in her work, showcasing their shared passion for creativity. Observers have drawn comparisons to Meghan Markle’s invitation to Sandringham in 2017, which was seen as a precursor to her wedding to Prince Harry. Samuel’s artistic career has been remarkable, with highlights including an apprenticeship in Japan and recognition at prestigious exhibitions. His family’s artistic legacy further enhances his standing in the royal sphere. If the wedding goes ahead, it will mark another modern step for the royal family, combining tradition with contemporary values.
The Sussexes and Their Absence
While Samuel and Eleanor’s budding romance was celebrated, the absence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle remained a focal point of discussions. Meghan was famously invited to Sandringham before her marriage to Harry, breaking longstanding tradition in which Kate Middleton had to wait until after her wedding with Prince William. However, this year’s exclusion further underscores the couple’s strained relationship with the rest of the family. Despite this, King Charles maintained his focus on unity among those present, with Prince William and Princess Kate stepping up as key figures in the family’s public image.
Looking ahead, the royal family faces both opportunities and challenges. As King Charles enters his second year as monarch, the focus will likely shift to Prince William and Princess Kate as they prepare for even greater responsibilities. Kate’s unwavering poise and dedication have solidified her role as future Queen Consort, while William continues to establish himself as a leader on the world stage.