Over the weekend, all eyes were on London as King Charles III was coronated, but across the Atlantic in California, Prince Archie celebrated his fourth birthday.
A heartwarming image of Archie reaching out to a photograph of Princess Diana emerged during the festivities and was shared by a close friend of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. However, the post elicited conflicting comments.
According to reports, the couple stated unequivocally that if they were to attend the coronation, Archie’s birthday would have to be acknowledged. Author Christopher Andersen suggested that Harry would be “uncomfortable” attending the coronation due to revelations in his biography, making Meghan’s decision to stay in the US with their children reasonable, since it allowed them to avoid intensive scrutiny.
Royal specialist Omid Scobie emphasised the significance of Archie’s birthday in Meghan’s decision to remain in the United States. “I understand Archie’s fourth birthday (also on May 6) influenced the couple’s decision,” Scobie stated on Twitter. Harry, who only attended the coronation at Westminster Abbey, declined an invitation to the private family meal, where King Charles lifted a glass to “those who weren’t present” and wished Prince Archie a happy birthday.
It was a touching homage to a grandson he hasn’t seen in years. Unfortunately, Harry was not present to witness the heartfelt toast, having returned to California immediately to celebrate Archie’s special day. According to accounts, Harry wasted little time and boarded a jet bound for the United States just hours after his father was crowned.
Archie’s birthday party was said to be a “low-key” affair, with a fresh lemon cake created by Meghan with fruits from their own garden presented. The actual guest list is unknown, but it is thought to have included the closest family members, making an intimate gathering for the event.