Buckingham Palace recently found itself at the center of a media storm following its social media tribute to Prince Harry on his 40th birthday.
The post, which featured a photograph of Harry alone, led many to speculate that Meghan Markle had been deliberately cropped out.
However, new information suggests that the image was not altered by the palace and was part of the original set taken in 2018.
The photograph in question was captured by photographer Jimmy Rainford during a visit by the couple to Dogpatch Labs in Dublin.
In the image shared by the official Royal Family account on X, formerly known as Twitter, Prince Harry appears deep in conversation, with Meghan notably absent from the frame.
Accompanying the photo was a birthday message wishing Harry a happy 40th.
This choice of image ignited a flurry of debate online, particularly given the existing tensions between Prince Harry and the rest of the royal family, including his brother, Prince William.
Many observers interpreted the post as a subtle snub aimed at Meghan, leading to questions about why a photo that originally included her would be shared without her.
However, recent reports have clarified that the palace did not edit the photograph.
According to Mail Online, archival records show that two versions of the image were initially released in 2018: one featuring both Harry and Meghan, and another with just Harry.
The latter was not a result of recent cropping but rather an alternate shot taken by Rainford during the same event.
Jimmy Rainford had provided both images to the Press Association shortly after the event.
The version shared by Buckingham Palace was simply the unedited one that included only Prince Harry, suggesting that the choice was made from available options rather than an attempt to erase Meghan from the narrative.
On his milestone birthday, Prince Harry celebrated in Los Angeles, distancing himself from the royal spotlight back in the UK.
He and Meghan made a public appearance at the George Zyphon Tennis Tournament, which took place just a day before his birthday.
This charitable event honored the late son of Kelly McKee Zyphon and benefited the Alliance for Children’s Rights.
Dressed casually in a white t-shirt and blazer, Harry looked relaxed alongside Meghan, who wore a chic tan button-up dress.
This weekend celebration offered a laid-back yet meaningful way for the Duke of Sussex to mark entering his 40s.
In a statement to the BBC, Harry expressed his feelings about reaching this milestone.
He admitted to feeling anxious about turning 30 but was excited about turning 40.
He emphasized his commitment to humanitarian efforts, stating, “Whatever the age, my mission is to continue showing up and doing good in the world.”
The incident surrounding the birthday post adds another layer to the ongoing scrutiny faced by Harry and Meghan since stepping back as senior royals in 2020.
Their lives have been under constant public and media attention, often highlighting the complexities within the royal family.
While the clarification regarding the photograph may alleviate some criticism directed at Buckingham Palace, it serves as a reminder of the sensitivity surrounding the Sussexes and their ties to the monarchy.
The public’s interest in their relationship with the royal family continues to be a hot topic.
As discussions unfold, many are left wondering what this means for the future dynamics between the Sussexes and the royal family.
The incident illustrates how easily misunderstandings can arise in the public eye, especially when it comes to the intricate relationships within the royal household.
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