Princess Lilibet remains unaware of her parents’ tumultuous past. Born in the US after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle relocated to Montecito, California, her childhood has been markedly different from her father’s.
Despite celebrating her first birthday in the UK, speculation and gossip surrounded the event.
Notably, her royal aunt and uncle, Prince William and Kate Middleton, along with their children, were absent from the celebration.
Even though Queen Elizabeth attended, she reportedly refused to be photographed with her great-granddaughter.
Following Lilibet’s birthday, many questioned William and Kate’s absence. A friend of Meghan even publicly mocked Kate, refusing to accept the strained relations as the reason. On June 4, 2021, Harry and Meghan joyfully announced the birth of their daughter, Lilibet, their second child after Archie, born in 2019.
A spokesperson stated, “It is with great joy that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, welcome their daughter, Lilibet ‘Lili’ Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, to the world.” Despite initial congratulations from royal family members, relations between the Waleses and Sussexes have since grown frostier.
A Private Introduction to the World
Lilibet’s birth in the US allowed her to avoid the intense paparazzi scrutiny her parents faced, offering her a calmer, more private start in life. Meeting her UK family took time, with her introduction to Queen Elizabeth occurring during the Platinum Jubilee Celebration in 2022.
Harry and Meghan hosted a backyard picnic for Lilibet’s first birthday at Frogmore Cottage, where a friend captured one of the few public photos of her. However, Queen Elizabeth banned photographers from their private family meeting, citing a bloodshot eye and concerns over potential exploitation of any photos.
Ongoing Family Tensions
Reports suggest that William and Kate’s children did not attend Lilibet’s party due to other commitments. Yet, royal expert Christopher Andersen claimed they made no effort to introduce their children to Lilibet. Meghan’s friend, Garcelle Beauvais, criticized Kate’s decision, calling it “shady.”
The ongoing feud has deeply affected Harry, who is reportedly devastated by the rift. Royal biographer Tom Quinn noted Harry’s concern over his children’s lack of relationship with their cousins and his hope that they can at least become friends as adults.
A Low-Key Third Birthday Celebration
On June 4, 2024, Lilibet celebrated her third birthday with a low-key event. While her first birthday was in the UK and her second was a celebrity-packed bash in California, this year’s celebration at the Sussexes’ Montecito home was more intimate, featuring close friends and family.
Future Appearances
Harry and Meghan have largely kept their children out of the spotlight, though they appeared in the couple’s Netflix series in 2022. During a recent visit to Nigeria, Meghan shared that Lilibet enjoys singing and dancing. She also reflected on a poignant moment with her daughter, emphasizing the strong bond they share.
According to royal expert Tom Quinn, the Sussexes might bring their children on future tours, aiming to attract positive publicity. Quinn noted that this move could enhance their public image, especially as they pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Do you think Harry and Meghan should keep their children out of the spotlight, or is it a good idea to include them in future appearances? Share your thoughts on this evolving royal family dynamic!
