Duchess Camilla takes on Meghan Markle's patron role at National Theatre

The Duchess of Cornwall is said to be pleased, after taking on the role as patron at the National Theatre—after Meghan Markle took the position three years ago.

• The Queen held the patron role for 45 years, then handed it to Meghan Markle in 2019.
• As The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are no longer working royals the role has been given to Camilla.
• In other royal news, Prince Charles is set to make his debut on reality TV this week.

Camilla, who has always shown an interest in the arts and theatre, was said to be upset when the Queen originally gave the position to Meghan.

A source told the Sunday Times, "She really wanted it. She was pretty miffed when it went to Meghan, and will be all the more delighted to take it on now, after being disappointed not to get it first time round."

When Meghan, who recently paid tribute to her mother, was given the title in 2019 the Queen had been the theatre's patron for 45 years.

At the time the Queen thought Meghan, because of her acting background, would be the right person for the role - however, after moving to California and stepping down as a senior royal, along with husband Harry, she had to give up her patronages. 

Camilla, who earlier this month, celebrated the one year anniversary of her book club, was the obvious choice to step in—as she has always been vocal about her love of the theatre and even helped her husband Prince Charles reopen the West End late last year. 

It is thought that The Duchess of Cornwall, who led this year's New Years honours list as she was made a Royal Lady by the Queen, will support the theatre with royal engagements and bring attention to its heritage. 

It was previously thought that the position would be handed to Prince Edward, the Queen’s youngest son after royal experts predicted the Queen’s likely candidates for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal patronages.

Royal experts believed that the Earl of Wessex, who is also a patron of the National Youth Theatre, would be the perfect person to fulfill the job’s duties. Having worked in television and theatre for years, the keen art enthusiast could have bought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the important role.