Prince Harry Pays Tribute To Princess Diana In 'Tearful' Wedding Reception Speech

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's nuptials brought up a number of emotions.

According to an Entertainment Tonight exclusive, the prince honored his late mother, Princess Diana, during a "tearful speech" at the royal newlyweds' luncheon reception on Saturday, May 19, 2018. The celebratory event was hosted by his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, at St. George's Hall in Windsor Castle.

"Harry gave a tearful speech paying tribute to his own mother missing from the festivities," a source told the website. "He also thanked Meghan's mother [Doria Ragland] for giving him permission to marry Meghan. He talked about how they made a great team."

The insider added that whenever the Duke of Sussex referred to the duchess as "his wife," the 600 guests attending the event cheered. 

Helping to ring in the festivities was none other than Sir Elton John, who performed at the luncheon. According to ET's source, the prince had asked if anyone could play piano, prompting the 71-year-old pop music icon to volunteer. John, who was famously a close friend of Princess Diana's, entertained the crowd with renditions of "The Circle of Life," "Tiny Dancer," "Your Song," and "I'm Still Standing."

Later in the evening, Prince Harry, 33, and Markle, 36, hit the dance floor with Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their closest celeb friends at their second, more intimate reception. The event was thrown by Prince Charles at Frogmore House for 200 guests. The royal brothers' close friend, Charlie van Straubenzee, roasted Prince Harry in a "hilarious and naughty speech," the insider said, adding, "It left the crowd in stitches. William had warned Harry before the wedding that it was payback time."

As Nicki Swift previously reported, Prince Harry and Markle's royal wedding took place at St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle over the weekend. The royal couple became engaged last November, and have been together since the fall of 2016.