Royal family praised for mature birthday gesture to Harry
Royal family extends birthday wishes to Harry despite ongoing tensions
A royal expert commended the royal family for “taking the higher ground” by extending birthday wishes to Prince Harry on his 40th birthday. This act marked a significant moment in their ongoing rift. Harry received public messages from the royal family, as well as from Kate Middleton and Prince William. Royal expert Rafe Heydel-Mankoo remarked that this gesture, after two years, shows the royal family “adhering to established conventions” without “stooping to their level” amidst the tension between the monarchy and Harry and Meghan Markle.
Heydel-Mankoo discussed the tradition of recognising milestone birthdays of non-working royals, explaining to GB News that it aligns with conventions from the late Queen’s reign. According to him, working royals receive annual birthday greetings on social media, while non-working royals like Prince Harry are acknowledged only on major milestone birthdays. He noted that Meghan also received a 40th birthday greeting in 2021, despite the couple’s split and the controversial Oprah Winfrey interview.
Heydel-Mankoo pointed out that the royal family’s birthday post for Harry was carefully edited to exclude Meghan from the image. He mentioned that many people likely hope for a similar exclusion in real life. He praised the royal family for “not stooping down and getting too involved in the drama” despite the public remarks made by Harry and Meghan.
Wishing a Happy 40th Birthday to The Duke of Sussex! https://t.co/ZKJbYDmV6L
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) September 15, 2024
When asked about the possibility of reconciliation, Heydel-Mankoo expressed hope regarding King Charles. He described Charles as a loving father and a devout Christian, who desperately hopes for a “prodigal son moment” where Harry returns and possibly apologises. However, he was doubtful about such a path for Harry’s relationship with his brother.
Heydel-Mankoo contrasted Harry’s 40th birthday with his 30th. Ten years ago, William and Kate organised Harry’s 30th birthday party at Clarence House, attended by family, lifelong friends, and even an ex-girlfriend. In contrast, his 40th birthday was spent at home with his family, followed by a wilderness retreat with new friends.
Despite the ongoing feud, Heydel-Mankoo suggested that the distance between William and Harry might lessen with age. He noted that as people enter their 40s, they often mature, and the conflicts of their 30s may seem less significant.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Daily Guardian praises the royal family for wishing Prince Harry a happy 40th birthday, seen as a gesture to maintain traditions despite ongoing family tensions. (Read more)
- Hindustan Times praises the royal family for wishing Prince Harry a happy 40th birthday without being overly involved in ongoing family feuds, seen as a gesture of respect and higher ground. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why was Prince Harry’s 40th birthday significant in his feud with the royal family?
It marked a major moment with the royal family publicly wishing him, showing they took the higher ground.
Did the royal family follow any tradition in wishing Prince Harry?
Yes, they adhered to the tradition of acknowledging milestone birthdays for non-working royals.
Why was Meghan Markle cropped from the birthday image?
The royal family carefully cropped Meghan to avoid appearing too involved in the public feud.
Is there hope for reconciliation between Prince Harry and the royal family?
Rafe Heydel-Mankoo believes there is hope, especially with King Charles hoping for a reconciliation.
How did Prince Harry celebrate his 40th birthday compared to his 30th?
He had a quieter celebration at home, contrasting with his 30th, which was a larger family event.
