Queen Elizabeth Doesn’t ‘Mind’ That Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan Are Spending the Holidays in Toronto

A Christmas miracle! Queen Elizabeth II is not upset that her grandson Prince Harry and his wife, Duchess Meghan (née Markle), will not be spending time with the royal family for the holidays. “In the end, the Queen didn’t mind that they did their own thing,” a source told In Touch exclusively. “She actually wanted them to announce it to take away from the fact that Prince Philip is in the hospital. She doesn’t want anyone to focus on that or the discussions about [Prince] Andrew, etc. She’s happy for them to be the talking point.”

On Friday, December 20, a spokesperson for the royal couple told Us Weekly that “Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are spending private family time in Canada” along with their son, Archie, 7 months. Of course, the country means a lot to the 38-year-old actress since she spent a lot of time filming Suits there. “The decision to base themselves in Canada reflects the importance of this Commonwealth country to see them both,” they added.

After a crazy year, the pair — who are constantly criticized in England — seem thrilled to have some peace and quiet with their little family. “Meghan’s so excited and relaxed back in Toronto,” an insider told Life & Style. “Right now, they’re going to dinners, they’re having fun. They’re not hiding, but nobody really notices when they’re in Toronto.”

However, Prince William, 37, is “secretly relieved” he won’t have to spend time with his 35-year-old brother during Christmas, a second source told In Touch exclusively. “William’s grown tired of Harry feeling sorry for himself,” the insider dished.

On the other hand, Duchess Kate (née Middleton) — who shares Prince George, 6, Princess Charlotte, 4, Prince Louis, 18 months, with William — is “keeping herself out of the situation” between the two siblings, a third insider revealed. “Kate has enough on her plate looking after three kids and fulfilling royal duties. She barely has a moment to herself and tries to avoid drama and conflict at all costs.”

It’s been a tough few months for the 93-year-old queen as she has been dealing with the aftermath of her son Prince Andrew, 59, being friends with the late Jeffrey Epstein. Additionally, her husband, Prince Philip, 98, was admitted to the hospital on December 20. Despite the craziness, the Queen is supporting her family. “The Queen is standing by Andrew and believes her son, but is mortified by the whole ordeal,” a fourth source explained. “The Palace has the best crisis managers and aides that money can buy, but Andrew’s going to struggle to get his reputation back on track.” Meanwhile, it seems like Prince Philip was taken to King Edward VII’s Hospital out of an abundance of caution.

Hopefully, the royals are able to enjoy this very merry time of year.