In just a few short months, Meghan Markle [1] has proved to be an impressive addition to the royal family. Not only has she nailed each of her official appearances — including her first solo engagement [2] — but she's also revealed her first solo project, Together: Our Community Cookbook [3]. With her impactful work — not to mention her enviable style [4] — Meghan has won over much of the public, and it appears she has the hearts of her new in-laws as well.
It's been well reported that Meghan and her sister-in-law the Duchess of Cambridge are close [5] and that she and Prince William have a solid relationship [6]. She's even in the Queen's good graces [7]. But what about her father-in-law, Prince Charles? Let's just say they might be BFFs.
The most compelling evidence of this comes from Meghan's wedding day. After it was announced that Meghan's own father would not attend the nuptials, Prince Charles kindly accepted Meghan's request that he walk her down the aisle [8]. A source told Us Weekly [9] at the time that "Prince Charles was very touched to be asked by Meghan to walk her down the aisle, and he is very much looking forward to welcoming her into the family."
Not only did Prince Charles accompany Meghan on her big day, but he was also attentive to Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, escorting her out of the church alongside his own wife, Camilla, and engaging her conversation. His attention to Doria speaks to his obvious affection for Meghan, which has become increasingly evident in photos from the events they've attended since the May nuptials.
The two were adorably in sync at Prince Charles's 70th birthday celebration [10] at Buckingham Palace, where they giggled over Prince Harry getting swarmed by a bee [11]. And less than two weeks later at Meghan's first Trouping the Colour [12] ceremony, she and Prince Charles were seen talking and laughing on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. At each of their recent engagements, it seems the duo have found small moments to make eye contact or exchange pleasantries amid the busyness of their official duties, which speaks to their solid relationship.
But perhaps even more telling, and endearing, than their many amusing photos together, are the reports that Meghan has brought Prince Charles and Harry closer than ever. Charles is said to think Meghan is the "best thing to have happened to Harry [14]" and apparently has a "real soft spot" for her, while Harry is "eternally grateful" to his father for giving him Meghan's hand in marriage. The couple even holidayed with Prince Charles and Camilla [15] at the Castle of Mey in Scotland over the Summer.
Regardless of what may be going on behind the scenes (ahem, those Harry and Charles feuding rumours [16]), there's no denying that the photos ahead paint a pretty adorable picture of friendship between Charles and his daughter-in-law.
Meghan looked thrilled to see her father-in-law at the Royal Ascot in June.
Charles and Meghan exchanged a smiley glance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Royal Air Force celebration in July.
Charles made sure Doria Ragland was included with the rest of the royal family on the steps of St. James Palace after the royal wedding.
Charles and Meghan shared a laugh with Camilla at his 70th birthday celebrations in May.
Prince Charles stood behind the queen and other members of the royal family to chat with Meghan and Harry during the Trooping the Colour in June.
Meghan and Harry were all smiles while chatting with Prince Charles at the Royal Ascot in June.
Charles was clearly amused by Meghan during an event at Buckingham Palace in May.
Prince Charles spoke to Meghan's mother after the royal wedding in May.
During the Trooping the Colour in June, Prince Charles went out of his way to speak to Meghan and Harry on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.