Meghan Markle is facing renewed criticism after attending Kris Jenner’s lavish 70th birthday celebration in Beverly Hills without wearing a Remembrance Day poppy, a move that royal insiders say was far from accidental.
While Prince Harry appeared at the event wearing the traditional red poppy pinned to his tuxedo lapel, Meghan opted for a sleek black gown with no visible emblem. The contrasting choices immediately fueled speculation that Meghan was sending a pointed message to the royal family.
According to a report by Radar Online, royal sources claimed Meghan’s decision was a deliberate statement rather than a simple oversight. They argued that the Duchess of Sussex is well aware of the poppy’s significance as a symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers and a mark of respect deeply tied to British tradition.
“Meghan’s fully aware of the symbolism. The poppy isn’t just decoration – it’s a powerful emblem that means everything to Harry and the royals,” one source told the outlet. “By deliberately leaving it off, she was making a statement of contempt toward both him and the entire family.”
Another insider echoed that sentiment, describing the move as “anything but accidental.” They added, “Meghan knows exactly what the poppy stands for – she’s worn it before and understands its importance to Harry. Skipping it at such a glitzy Hollywood event feels like a deliberate move to rub it in the royals’ faces.”
A third source said the absence of the poppy carried a deeper message. “Snubbing the wearing of the poppy might seem trivial, but in this context, it’s huge. Meghan’s fully aware it would upset Harry and be viewed in Britain as disrespectful,” the insider said. “It’s her way of showing she’s finished with royal obligations – and she’s not hiding it.”
The poppy, worn annually across the United Kingdom and Commonwealth nations, symbolizes remembrance and gratitude for military personnel who lost their lives in service. Members of the royal family traditionally wear it during public appearances around Remembrance Day each November.
Observers note that Meghan’s decision comes at a time when her relationship with the monarchy remains strained. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, both she and Prince Harry have faced ongoing scrutiny over their actions and public appearances.
While neither Meghan nor Harry has commented publicly on the controversy, the incident has reignited debate about the couple’s ties to royal tradition—and whether Meghan’s latest statement marks another step in her separation from the royal fold.