The royal family faces a fresh controversy as major photo agencies retract a Mother’s Day image of the Princess of Wales due to editing allegations, while Sky Atlantic’s new drama ‘Mary and George’ explores a lesser-known chapter of British LGBTQ+ history.
Recent developments have led major photo agencies, including the Associated Press and Reuters, to withdraw a recently published image of the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, initially circulated to celebrate Mother’s Day. The photograph, captured by Prince William in Windsor, faced scrutiny after sharp-eyed fans noticed potential editing inconsistencies, particularly with Princess Charlotte’s cardigan sleeve. Despite the removal of the image from various social media platforms, the Palace has not issued a comment regarding the allegations of manipulation, fueling speculative discourse and potential conspiracy theories about its authenticity. This event occurs amid broader tensions surrounding the royal family, compounded by critical remarks from Kate’s uncle, Gary Goldsmith, concerning the actions of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
In a separate cultural development, Sky Atlantic has introduced a new period drama titled “Mary and George,” highlighting the personal relationship between King James I of England and George Villiers, his alleged male lover. The series seeks to explore the intimate and potentially romantic connection shared between James I, a monarch recognized for his translation of the Bible and interest in witchcraft, and Villiers, a favorite courtier whose relationship with the king has been subject to historical speculation. By focusing on the influence Villiers’ mother had in fostering her son’s proximity to the king, “Mary and George” delves into the intersection of power dynamics and personal relationships within the Jacobean court. The drama presents an opportunity for viewers to engage with a chapter of British LGBTQ+ history that has been relatively overlooked, prompting a reevaluation of the nature of James I’s relationships with men during his reign.