In a surprising move, the British royal family has publicly wished Prince Harry a happy 40th birthday, breaking a silence that has prevailed since 2021, CNN reports.
The message, shared on X and Instagram, featured a smiling image of Harry and a birthday cake emoji.
The post, which read “Wishing The Duke of Sussex a very happy 40th birthday today!”, was later shared by Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who added their own message, “Wishing a Happy 40th Birthday to The Duke of Sussex!”
This display of public well-wishes comes amid a period of strained relations between Harry and other senior royals. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been living in California since 2020 after stepping down from their royal duties. Tensions heightened following the release of Harry’s memoir “Spare,” which detailed his strained relationship with his brother William and his father, King Charles III.
Despite the public rift, Harry and Meghan have reportedly been invited to King Charles’ coronation in May 2023. However, their attendance remains uncertain.
While interactions between Harry and other senior royals have been limited, he visited Charles earlier this year following the King’s cancer diagnosis but spent only 45 minutes with him. Harry also made a brief return to London for the 10th anniversary of his Invictus Games, but avoided seeing any of the Windsors.
For his 40th birthday, Harry is believed to be spending time with Meghan and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, before embarking on a trip with close friends.
