(In England) Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2018 Royal Wedding Captivates 1.9 Billion at Windsor’s St George’s Chapel

 

On May 19, 2018, the world turned its attention to Windsor, England, as Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, married American actress Meghan Markle at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. The ceremony was a blend of British royal tradition and modern multicultural elements, reflecting both Harry’s royal heritage and Meghan’s biracial, American background.

 Meghan wore a sleek, elegant gown designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, and the couple was surrounded by members of the royal family, celebrities, and close friends. The event was steeped in symbolism, from Meghan walking partway down the aisle alone to Bishop Michael Curry’s passionate sermon on love and justice, which captured global attention.

The guest list included a striking mix of royals, Hollywood stars, and public figures, illustrating the merging of two very different worlds. Oprah Winfrey, Serena Williams, George and Amal Clooney, and the cast of Suits—Meghan’s former show—were among the attendees. 

Meanwhile, traditional elements like the use of St George’s Chapel, a royal venue since the 14th century, and the presence of Queen Elizabeth II added a sense of continuity and history. The couple’s decision to forgo a state wedding and invite many members of the public into the castle grounds also underscored their desire to modernize and make the royal family more accessible.

The wedding was watched by an estimated 1.9 billion people worldwide, making it one of the most viewed events in television history. Beyond the glamour and ceremony, it symbolized a broader shift in the British monarchy’s image—toward greater inclusivity and relevance in the 21st century. 

Harry and Meghan's union, and their clear commitment to social justice and charity, stirred conversations around race, identity, and tradition within the royal institution. Though their future with the royal family would later take unexpected turns, the 2018 wedding marked a hopeful, historic moment that captured imaginations across the globe.