Meghan Markle and Prince Harry criticised over Lilibet Instagram photo
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have faced criticism online after sharing a photograph of Princess Lilibet on Instagram, with some social media users accusing the couple of hypocrisy given their public campaigning on online safety and privacy. The image shows the Duke of Sussex holding their four-year-old daughter, with the post prompting renewed debate about how the Sussexes balance public advocacy with personal disclosures.
Daily Star reported that the photo was posted on Saturday and shows Prince Harry cradling Princess Lilibet, who is pictured in a pink dress and tights while holding balloons, as commenters questioned why the couple would share images of their children after urging stronger protections for children online.
The article said Prince Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, have previously emphasised the importance of online safety and privacy, and noted that the Duke has recently been involved in a High Court dispute in which he raised concerns about alleged media intrusion. It also reported that the couple issued a statement this week after the UK Government announced proposed changes linked to children’s social media data storage rules within the Crime and Policing Bill.
The backlash follows a pattern of intense scrutiny whenever the couple shares family content publicly, and it comes after a previous rare glimpse of Princess Lilibet shared by Meghan Markle drew widespread attention. The Daily Star report also cited royal journalist Mr Matt Wilkinson saying his understanding was that Prince Harry would prefer his children not to be seen.
Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and moving to California, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have sought greater control over their family’s privacy, while continuing to speak publicly about online harms. The latest reaction underlines how even limited glimpses of Archie and Lilibet can ignite strong, divided responses.
