The Princess of Wales, Kate, has been at the center of a controversy involving the editing of a family photo released for Mother’s Day. Criticism arose after international picture agencies recalled the image, citing concerns over manipulation. Despite calls for the original, unedited photo to be shared publicly, Kensington Palace has declined to do so. This incident prompted a review of all handout photos by a major American broadcaster, with CNN expressing it finds the manipulation of photos for editorial purposes unacceptable. The controversy has raised questions about the manipulation of royal images and the need for transparency in communications from the royal family.

In a separate matter, Princess Kate will not be attending this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade, an event where she traditionally participates as Colonel of the Irish Guards by handing out shamrocks. Her absence follows a period of recovery from abdominal surgery she underwent in January. Lady Ghika will stand in for her at the parade, with Major General Sir Christopher Ghika presiding over the event. This year marks one of the few instances in history when a royal has been unable to attend the parade, a tradition dating back to 1900. Princess Kate’s temporary withdrawal from royal duties is also noted alongside ongoing health challenges within the royal family, including King Charles’s cancer treatment. Despite these setbacks, preparations for the St Patrick’s Day Parade continue as planned.