Reality television star Kim Kardashian has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding deleted photographs featuring Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from her mother Kris Jenner's seventieth birthday celebration. The social media personality confirmed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex specifically requested the removal of the images after they had been shared online.
The Photogate Incident Explained
During a recent episode of the Khloe in Wonderland podcast, Kim Kardashian provided detailed context about what has been termed "photogate" by the famous family. The incident occurred following Kris Jenner's extravagant James Bond themed birthday party held at Jeff Bezos' Beverly Hills estate in November. The event attracted numerous A-list celebrities including Mariah Carey, Adele, Justin Bieber, and Snoop Dogg, with Bruno Mars providing musical entertainment.
Permission and Posting Protocol
Kim explained the family's standard procedure regarding social media sharing, stating: "We took a photo and then we were all going through them, we're all communicating about what we're going to post. We're never ones to post without permission. It's not who we are." She emphasized that they had initially received approval to publish the photographs, selecting what she described as "fun" and "dignified" images from the evening while keeping more revealing shots private.
The reality star noted that the Sussexes only raised concerns after the photographs had already been uploaded to various Instagram accounts managed by Kardashian and Jenner family members. According to Kim, the royal couple realized the timing coincided with Remembrance Day commemorations and became concerned about public perception of them attending a lavish party during this solemn period.
Remembrance Day Considerations
"We were told that it was totally cool to post. And then after it was posted, I think they realized it was Remembrance Day, and they didn't want to be seen at a party, even though it's already up," Kardashian revealed during the podcast discussion. She contrasted this with the couple's appearance at the Baby2Baby Gala shortly before, noting that charity events presented different public relations considerations compared to social gatherings featuring dancing and revelry.
Khloe Kardashian participated in the conversation, questioning the inconsistency given the Sussexes' recent public appearances. Kim responded by highlighting the distinction between charitable functions and private celebrations, suggesting the latter carried greater potential for misinterpretation during a commemorative period.
Aftermath and Resolution
Once the concern was raised, the Kardashian family promptly removed all photographs featuring Harry and Meghan from their social media platforms. Kim described the situation with philosophical acceptance: "So we took them down to respect Remembrance Day. You've just got to laugh at the situation sometimes and lighten it up. If everyone's taking it the wrong way, lean in."
Party Aftermath and Current Projects
The birthday celebration itself generated additional headlines when local police responded to noise complaints at Bezos' property, though no formal action was taken. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle has remained active in her professional endeavors, recently appearing at the Sundance Film Festival for the premiere of Cookie Queens, a documentary she produced with Prince Harry through their Archewell Productions company.
The Duchess described the film as "one of the most powerful and meaningful depictions" of the American Girl Scout experience, highlighting its modern interpretation of traditional girlhood narratives. This professional activity continues alongside the ongoing public interest in the couple's interactions with celebrity circles and the occasional controversies that emerge from these intersections.
