The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, recently celebrated her 43rd birthday, sparking both criticism and admiration from the public. While some social media users expressed surprise at her age, others took issue with her low-key at-home celebration.
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According to Grant Harold, former royal butler to King Charles III, Meghan marked the occasion with an intimate gathering at her Montecito mansion, complete with a backyard barbecue courtesy of Prince Harry’s culinary skills. Harold praised Harry’s thoughtfulness, saying, “He cooks well and with grace… They do like having outside summer barbecues.”
However, not everyone was impressed. Some social media users labeled the home celebration “tacky,” while others were shocked by Meghan’s age. “I didn’t realize she was in her 40s,” wrote one Facebook user.
Despite the backlash, many fans rallied around the couple, praising Prince Harry as a devoted husband. “A really lovely pair! He’s infatuated with her!” exclaimed one supporter.
The birthday wishes also raised questions about the rift between the Sussexes and the royal family. Grant Harold predicted that Meghan would receive private well-wishes from Prince William, Princess Catherine, King Charles III, and Queen Camilla, despite tensions.
However, the royal family’s public silence on Meghan’s birthday has sparked speculation. Last year, the family didn’t publicly acknowledge her birthday, and this year seems no different.
The exclusion of Prince Harry and Meghan from the royal family’s annual gathering at Balmoral Castle has further fueled the rift. The couple’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020 has led to strained relationships and public backlash.
Meghan has spoken out about the toll cyberbullying has taken on her family, particularly her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. “As parents, all you want to do is protect them,” she said in a recent interview.
Amidst the controversy, Meghan’s birthday serves as a reminder of the complexities of royal life and the challenges faced by those in the public eye.
