Harry and Meghan to Keep Children Out of Public Milestone Photos as They Return to the UK

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are expected to move back to Britain this fall, bringing their children, Archie (7) and Lilibet (5), closer to the royal family. The couple has decided not to publish the customary first-day-of-school photographs or birthday portraits that have become a hallmark of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s approach to their children's public milestones. > "We want to protect our children’s privacy and keep the focus on their everyday lives," a spokesperson for the Sussexes said.

The privacy stance also covers the school the children will attend and the location of the family’s new residence, both of which have not been disclosed. British media have been reminded of privacy rules and asked not to reveal these details. The Sussexes are expected to live in a private, non-royal home while retaining their California property.

In contrast, William and Kate have continued to share carefully managed images and short videos of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis on occasions such as birthdays, using professional photographers and limited media access.

Meghan previously expressed concerns about media attention at school drop-offs in a 2022 interview, noting that ordinary school routines could become “royal media events.” The couple’s recent Instagram post showed the children on a summer holiday, indicating they will continue to share family moments on their own terms.

The family’s recent visit to the UK included a private reunion with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House, marking the first time the monarch had seen his grandchildren in more than four years.