Susie O’Brien: Archie’s christening snub isn’t a good look for Harry, Meghan

Harry and Meghan are happy to enjoy all the perks of being royalty has to offer — like front row at Wimbledon centre court — but when it comes to doing their duty, they show no remorse in shutting out loyal fans who just want to share in the joyous occasion, writes Susie O’Brien.

The latest royal christening has turned into a right royal snub.

Who would know what went on at the event marking the birth of Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan over the weekend?

We don’t know anything much about what happened, who was invited or who the godparents are.

Just two meagre pictures have been released from this significant event, and neither show all that much.

While I have defended the royal couple’s right to some privacy — particularly Meghan’s decision not to pose hours post-partum outside the hospital — their new way is now starting to feel a little mean.

The christening was held at a private chapel in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex wed in May 2018, meaning no one could get anywhere close to the action.

One of the official photos released for Archie’s christening.

There were only about 25 people there, and Harry and Meghan have refused to release the names of his godparents in a break with royal protocol out of respect for their privacy.

Folks lining the streets, queuing up in their thousands for hours, said it all: people love the Royals.

They got up at dawn, held up homemade banners and cheered and waved because they care.

And yet they have been locked out of the chance to share the joy at this precious family event.

Unlike other similar events for Prince William and Kate’s children, the public hasn’t been able to see people coming and going, know the details of the godparents and see a full formal photo of who was invited.

It’s all very well for Harry and Meghan, who have copped their fair share of media intrusion over the years, to keep some things private.

The second snap released for Archie’s Christening.

And yet they are crossing the line into enjoying the perks of royalty — like front row at Wimbledon centre court — but not doing their duty.

We feel like we know the royals, and I think it’s only natural for people to want to share this important event.

Locked out of being there, royal followers, and even grumpy old Republicans like me, mine the available information for clues as to what’s really going on.

The two pictures show a picturesque, but predictable line-up of Harry and Meghan’s families. The inclusion of Diana’s sisters Lady Jane Fellowes, at left, and Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is a nice touch — but where is her brother, Earl Spencer?

Royal fans camped out in Windsor ahead of the royal christening. Picture: Steve Parsons/PA Wire

Royal watches came out in force to celebrate the Christening, despite it being a private affair.

Kate Middleton, as she’s still widely known, made another standout fashion choice in a pink pussy-bow dress with red headband, but why did she choose something that’s more than a decade old?

It’s no wonder there’s so much speculation and spite surrounding Harry and Meghan. Although very popular, the lack of public information is creating a void being filled by rumour and gossip, which isn’t good for any newlyweds.

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There’s also a growing sign that the pair aren’t quite as smart as they like to think, recently asking people to watch their environmental footprints while jetting around the world in private planes.

They’ve also recently spent millions of pounds doing up their new home, further fuelling a perception they are happy to enjoy the privilege and the trappings of royal life without looking after the people who fund it all.

It takes away much of the magic and leaves them looking mean rather than majestic.

What a pity.

@susieob