Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have been embroiled in a controversy regarding the editing of a photo, following the confession by a close friend and Oscar-nominated film director, Misan Harriman. This controversy emerged after Kate Middleton was criticized for editing a photo with her children for Mother’s Day. Harriman, who has a close relationship with Meghan and has previously captured significant moments for the couple, admitted to editing a photo used for the announcement of Princess Lilibet’s pregnancy. This admission has ignited debates concerning the representation and perceived authenticity of royal couples in the public eye, drawing parallels between Harry and Meghan’s situation and earlier criticisms faced by other members of the royal family.

Criticism has stemmed from the accusation of hypocrisy, directed towards Harry and Meghan and their circle, especially in light of the couple’s known desire for privacy for their children and the curated nature of the images they share publicly. Royal expert Angela Levin has notably labeled the Sussexes’ camp as “hypocrites” in response to the scandal. Despite the controversy, the Duke and Duchess continue to reside in Montecito, prioritizing their family’s privacy. Harriman’s admission sheds light on broader discussions about the authenticity of public figures’ images and the role of digital manipulation in crafting public narratives.