The News
Harry and Meghan’s Christmas Card Sparks Controversy
In a surprising move, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have released their 2022 Christmas card without including their children, Archie and Lilibet.
This year's card, which was sent out via an Archival email on December 16th, features a striking black and white image of the couple from their recent appearance at the Robert F. Kennedy Ripple of Hope Award Gala in New York City.
The card conveys a warm holiday message, stating, “Wishing you a joyful holiday season,” and extends heartfelt wishes for health and peace in the coming year.
The couple signed off the burgundy card with their royal titles, “Best Wishes, Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.”
This choice has stirred up quite a reaction on social media, with many users expressing their displeasure.
One critic pointed out that the card lacks both a family photo and a personal touch, questioning the decision to use their royal titles in a card that was supposed to represent their charitable endeavors.
Another social media user expressed frustration over the absence of any family images, highlighting how the couple has had a cameraman following them for years yet failed to share a family photo.
Instead, they opted for a professional shot taken just a week prior, raising eyebrows about the authenticity of their holiday greeting.
The comment captured the sentiment of many who felt the card came off as more of a promotional piece than a genuine family greeting.
Further criticism came from another commentator who remarked on the repeated mention of “Archival” in the card, likening it to a brand of soft cookies.
The overemphasis on their foundation's name, they argued, detracts from the holiday spirit and feels overly commercialized.
Many felt that the Sussexes' card lacked the warmth typically associated with family holiday greetings, especially when compared to traditional royal cards.
Just three days before the Sussexes' card was unveiled, Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, shared their own festive greeting.
Their holiday card showcased a lovely family photo featuring the couple with their three children—George, Charlotte, and Louis.
The Wales family wore coordinated shades of blue, exuding a casual yet festive vibe, and the image was well-received by royal fans.
Supporters of the Wales family took to social media to praise the charming photograph, with one individual calling it “lovely.” Many expressed their admiration for the royal couple and their children, emphasizing the happiness radiating from the picture.
Comments poured in, commending the Prince and Princess of Wales for representing the monarchy so well with their beautiful family.
The contrast between the two holiday cards is stark.
While the Sussexes opted for a formal and somewhat detached approach, the Wales family's card was embraced for its warmth and familial connection.
Royal fans seemed to appreciate the authenticity of the Wales' card, suggesting that it reflects a more genuine royal family dynamic.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla also shared their Christmas wishes earlier this month.
Their greeting, which marked their first holiday card since Charles ascended to the throne, featured a photo taken at the Braemar Games in Scotland.
The couple donned vibrant red and green outfits, spreading cheer as they wished everyone a happy Christmas and New Year.
As the holiday season unfolds, the differing styles of the Sussexes and the Wales family highlight the evolving narratives within the British royal family.
While some embrace tradition and warmth, others seem to lean towards a more modern and business-oriented approach.
The public's reaction to these contrasting holiday greetings may reflect broader sentiments about the roles and responsibilities of modern royals.