King Charles did not publicly wish Meghan Markle a happy 45th birthday this week, but the apparent silence was down to royal protocol rather than a snub, according to reports. The Duchess of Sussex celebrated turning 45 on Tuesday, sharing glimpses of her celebrations with Prince Harry and their two children from the family's home in Montecito, California.
Royal Policy on Birthday Messages
While fans noticed there were no birthday messages from the Royal Family's official social media accounts, Hello! Magazine reported that the absence of a public tribute was in keeping with a long-standing royal policy introduced in 2022. According to the publication, the late Queen Elizabeth II introduced guidance limiting official birthday messages for non-working members of the Royal Family to milestone birthdays ending in a zero.
That means Meghan, who stepped back from royal duties alongside Prince Harry in 2020, was not expected to receive a public birthday greeting this year despite marking her 45th birthday. The policy has also applied to Prince Harry. The Duke of Sussex received a public message from the Royal Family when he celebrated his 40th birthday in 2024.
Previous Public Tribute to Prince Harry
At the time, the Royal Family's official social media account shared the message: "Wishing The Duke of Sussex a very happy 40th birthday today!" The post was also shared by the Prince and Princess of Wales' social media accounts.
While no public message was issued for Meghan this year, it remains possible King Charles marked the occasion privately.
Meghan's Birthday Celebrations
The Duchess celebrated her birthday by posting a cheerful photograph of herself jumping into a swimming pool with balloons tied around her, alongside the caption: "Thank you for the birthday love!" Her lifestyle brand, As Ever, also paid tribute by sharing a carousel of photographs, including a childhood image of Meghan, alongside the message: "Happy birthday to our founder, @meghan." The post also referenced one of the brand's signature candle scents, adding: "Lighting No. 084 to celebrate!"
Later in the day, Meghan shared a light-hearted video showing herself dancing barefoot around her kitchen wearing a sparkling "Happy Birthday" tiara. Dressed in a white T-shirt reading "It's Giving Mrs" with matching trousers, the Duchess laughed and twirled among birthday balloons while Prince Harry filmed the moment. The Duke could be heard laughing behind the camera before joking: "Oh dear."
