Buckingham Palace has officially dismissed allegations that Meghan Markle was excluded from a photograph shared to celebrate Prince Harry’s 40th birthday. A representative from the palace clarified to the Independent that the image, originally captured in 2018 and recently posted on the royal family’s social media, was not modified in any way. The spokesperson emphasized that the family used the photo as it was provided by a photo agency.
Confusion arose earlier when royal enthusiasts noticed that the birthday message—wishing Harry a happy 40th—featured him alone, while images taken that day clearly show Markle beside him. This has led to rampant speculation about a potential snub. The royal family’s post was the first acknowledgment of Harry’s birthday in three years, which makes its timing particularly pivotal.
In addition, multiple angles of the birthday celebration were evident, with some photos showing Harry alongside Markle and others framing him alone. The mention of Harry’s milestone was made via the official X account maintained by King Charles III’s office, marking a departure from recent royal protocol wherein social media mentions often spotlight only actively working royal members.
Following their departure from royal responsibilities in 2020, Harry and Meghan found themselves distanced from the royal family, especially after relocating to California. The dynamic reportedly remains tense, particularly between Harry and his brother, Prince William, as evidenced by their lack of interaction during a recent family funeral.
Sources close to the royals insist that claims of Markle being deliberately removed from the picture are unfounded, noting that various images were taken during the same event. The post shared by the royal family included a smiling Harry, while subsequent shares by the Prince and Princess of Wales also extended birthday wishes. The acknowledgment of Harry’s special day suggests a potential softening of relations within the family, especially as reports circulate about King Charles’s desire to mend fences following his recent health challenges.
While the royal family is keen to maintain narrative control, the unfolding situation highlights ongoing complexities in the relationships between Harry, Meghan, and the rest of the royals, suggesting that despite some outreach, significant bridges may still need to be rebuilt.
