Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced criticism over their 2025 Christmas card, with a former royal staff member calling it unusual. The card shows Harry and Meghan smiling at their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, but their faces are not visible. While the couple has often said they want to protect their children’s privacy, some people found the photo confusing because the children are included but not clearly shown.
Grant Harrold, a former butler to King Charles III, said he understands the wish for privacy but feels the image sends mixed signals. In his view, if parents do not want their children to be seen, it is strange to include them in a photo at all. He also pointed out that Harry and Meghan continue the tradition of sending Christmas cards, even after stepping away from royal duties in 2020. He suggested they have chosen only the traditions that suit them.
“They don’t want to show their children’s faces, and I completely understand their choice to keep their children’s faces out of the spotlight,” he told Daily Express. “However, I think it just comes across a bit odd in this picture. Again, they’re kind of sitting in the middle. Why send out a photo of your children if you don’t want them to be seen? For me, it doesn’t make sense.”
Harrold compared their card to the Christmas card from Prince William and Kate Middleton, which shows their children clearly. He said William and Kate’s photo looks confident and more traditional. He also noted that both families chose outdoor settings, which is common for royal cards.
Harrold added that William and Kate still send cards to long-time friends, while Harry may have lost touch with many people over the years. The discussion has added to ongoing public debate about how Harry and Meghan present their family life.
