“DUKE OF WHAT? WHERE DO THEY THINK THEY’RE LIVING—SOME KIND OF FAIRY-TALE KINGDOM?”.

President Trump was reportedly quick to mock Harry and Meghan after the couple used their royal titles while seeking an invitation from him for the upcoming high-level visit between the British Royal Family and Washington, DC, during the major celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
Sources claim Meghan and Harry were confident they would be included as representatives of the relationship between the two countries and as “senior members” of the Royal Family. Insiders add that Harry may have business motives behind his push, which could explain the couple’s attempts to involve the White House while also pressuring the Royal Family for an official role. This time, both Trump and the British Royal Family have given them their answer.

Rumors surrounding the 250th anniversary event have been circulating for weeks, but the latest whispers have transformed what should have been a straightforward diplomatic milestone into a sensational saga. According to unverified chatter, the Sussexes—despite stepping away from their duties in 2020—were certain they would naturally qualify for a high-profile presence when King Charles and senior royals travel to Washington next summer. Several outlets report that the couple allegedly positioned themselves as “ideal representatives” capable of symbolizing unity between the UK and the US. That confidence, however, may not have been shared by anyone on either side of the Atlantic.

Multiple Washington insiders claim they were stunned when they heard the Sussexes had supposedly reached out—informally or otherwise—using their full titles while expressing interest in participating in the diplomatic celebrations. According to one source, the request “landed like a lead balloon,” particularly among White House staff who believed the couple had been fully aware of their non-working status for years. “They wanted to attend, sure,” one insider said. “But wanting to attend and expecting to attend are two different things.”

It was at this point—again, according to reports—that word is believed to have reached former President Trump. The alleged response attributed to him was predictably sharp:
“Duke of what? Where do they think they’re living—some kind of fairy-tale kingdom?”
Another line, repeated across several tabloids, claimed he added:
“They left the Royal Family and still think they’re in charge. That’s adorable. Dumb, but adorable.”

While the authenticity of those remarks remains unconfirmed, political watchers note that the tone is unmistakably in line with Trump’s past comments about the couple, often delivered with his signature blend of disbelief and mockery. One commentator described the alleged exchange as “the most predictable reaction imaginable—Trump was never going to roll out the red carpet for two people who walked away from the only institution that gave them diplomatic currency.”

But the story doesn’t end with Trump’s supposed dismissal. According to several UK sources, the Sussexes then attempted a different approach—reportedly reaching out to the Royal Family itself, suggesting they might be available for a symbolic meeting during the Washington celebrations, or perhaps a role that would underscore repaired family ties. Whether this was a formal request or merely private conversation is unknown, but insiders insist the intention was clear: involvement, visibility, and relevance.

Some royal commentators have suggested there may be more behind Harry’s insistence than personal or symbolic motives. It is believed—though not confirmed—that the Duke may see participation in such a high-profile event as beneficial to ongoing business ventures, media commitments, or future projects tied to global “leadership and service” branding. One source hinted that the Sussexes “understand perfectly well that optics matter,” and that a photograph beside the King—or even near the White House—could serve as a powerful asset.

Yet despite every angle attempted, the answer from the Palace appears to have been unmistakably firm. Royal insiders note that the family remains wary after several years of high-profile interviews, documentary revelations, and Harry’s memoir Spare. Trust, as one source said, “is currency—and theirs is overdrawn.” Without trust, there could be no official involvement, no symbolic appearance, and certainly no diplomatic role.

One commentator told a London paper that the Palace’s quiet refusal “wasn’t angry, wasn’t emotional—but absolutely final.” The lack of public comment from Buckingham Palace only intensified speculation. Silence, in royal language, is often the loudest message of all.

Online reactions have been swift and cutting. Memes comparing Meghan and Harry to “freelance royals” and “self-appointed diplomats” spread rapidly across social media. One viral comment read:
“They resign from the monarchy and then apply for the monarchy again when there’s a photo op.”
Another remarked:
“Diplomatic representatives? They can’t even represent their own group chat.”

Meanwhile, supporters of the couple argue that the rumors may be overblown, and that any request they made could have been rooted in goodwill or reconciliation. Some believe the Sussexes genuinely hoped the event could be an opportunity for healing—privately or publicly. But even sympathetic voices admit that the optics are difficult. “It’s complicated,” one analyst explained. “You can’t pull away from an institution and then expect it to welcome you back at the highest international moment of the decade.”

For now, the official lineup for the 250th anniversary remains unannounced. But one thing is clear from the swirl of speculation: neither Washington nor London is preparing a seat for Meghan and Harry at the diplomatic table. Whether they asked, hinted, or merely hoped—both Trump (reportedly) and the Royal Family (silently) have delivered the same message.

Not this time.