Kim Kardashian has addressed the controversy surrounding the removal of photographs featuring Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from her mother Kris Jenner's 70th birthday party, insisting the decision was 'innocent'. Speaking on her sister Khloe Kardashian's podcast, Kim explained that the images were taken down because they coincided with Remembrance Day in the UK, a solemn occasion honouring fallen military personnel.
Kim stated that she and Kris had been given permission to post the photos, but later realised the timing was inappropriate. 'We were told that it was totally cool to post,' she said, adding that the family had not intended any disrespect. The couple had attended a Baby2Baby Gala earlier that evening, which was deemed acceptable to share, but the party images felt too celebratory for the context of Remembrance Day.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams criticised the Sussexes' handling of the situation, saying their 'lack of elementary public relations nous sometimes verges on the bizarre'. He noted that Harry likely recognised the insensitivity of the photos appearing around Remembrance Sunday, leading to the request for their removal. Fitzwilliams also pointed out that Harry wore a poppy in the images while Meghan did not, which sparked additional backlash.
PR expert Mayah Riaz highlighted the clash between the Kardashian world of visibility and celebration and the royal world of restraint and symbolism. 'Harry and Meghan live in both of these realities, but the rules of each are completely different,' she explained. Riaz added that Remembrance Day is deeply personal for Harry, tied to his military service, making the removal of the photos a symbolic act.
Kim Kardashian stressed that there was no ill intent and that the friendship between Kris Jenner and Meghan Markle remains genuine. 'We're never ones to post without permission,' she said, describing their relationship as 'sweet'. The episode has nonetheless highlighted the challenges the Sussexes face in balancing their Hollywood connections with royal traditions.
