Details of the awkward encounter in 2018 have resurfaced after last night’s variety show, which was held in front of a virtual audience due to coronavirus restrictions. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who was pregnant with Archie, met Gary Barlow, Howard Donald and Mark Owen backstage at the event.
But the boy band, who famously never managed to crack America, were news to Meghan.
Gary Barlow, who performed solo on last night’s show, told Australian chat show The Project about the meeting.
He said: “The first thing she said to us was that she wasn’t that aware of our music.
“Living in the States, she didn’t know us.
“But she enjoyed the show.”
Meghan told the singers she looked forward to their performance at her first time attending the annual show.
The 2020 Royal Variety Performance, hosted by comedian Jason Manford on ITV, was filmed on Sunday, November 29, at Blackpool Opera House.
Prince Charles represented the royal family at the special event.
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The Prince of Wales referenced the first Royal Variety Performance in 1912 which was attended by his great-grandfather King George V and great-grandmother Queen Mary.
He spoke of the Royal Variety Charity’s work supporting struggling members of the entertainment industry financially.
The 72-year-old said: “Today, that mission could hardly be more relevant, as this year’s show will provide vital support for workers who have been affected by these extraordinarily challenging times.
“On behalf of the Patron of the Royal Variety Performance, Her Majesty the Queen, I can only send the most special and heartfelt thanks to all of tonight’s incredibly talented performers who have come together in the splendid surroundings of the Blackpool Opera House to entertain, to inspire and, above all, to help those in need.
“And while, very sadly, we may not be able to gather as we usually would, I am delighted that, despite all adversity, the determination and dedication of everyone involved means that the show really can go on.”
Manford, 39, said hosting the show is a “dream”.
He said: “It’s such an honour to do it.
“I’ve performed at the Royal Variety three times now so to actually get to host it has always been my dream.
“Hosting the Royal Variety Performance is like a comedian’s Cup Final.
“It’s a big deal in the industry and of course it’s a big deal for the charity and for the people that it helps.
“So yes, I was really chuffed to bits [to be asked].”
