Prince Harry once embodied the ideal royal family member, attending every occasion, serving in the army, and dedicating himself to his country. However, his public persona began to shift dramatically after his marriage to former actress Meghan Markle. The couple made a notable retreat from the limelight, especially following the birth of their daughter, Princess Lilibet. Harry has kept their private life closely guarded but recently, he dropped a hint about which royal family member Lilibet resembles, leaving many intrigued.

A Dramatic Life

In 2021, the world mourned the loss of Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth's husband. His death was a shock, and the Royal Family held a somber funeral attended by Harry. Meghan, however, was unable to join due to her late-stage pregnancy with Lilibet and medical advice against flying. Although Harry visibly grieved, the media scrutiny was relentless.

@ Isabelle Casey/December 15, 2022

This difficult period led Harry back to America to be with Meghan and their growing family. Following Philip’s passing, it became evident that Harry had limited contact with the Royals. The experience of attending the funeral seemed far from pleasant, prompting fans to question when he might return to the UK. With a baby on the way, the tension surrounding the Royal Family was not an ideal environment for raising a child.

The General Public

Once Meghan gave birth to Princess Lilibet, the couple took a few weeks for themselves before announcing the news to the world. Harry and Meghan have consistently aimed to shield their children from the media but as Royals, some level of exposure is inevitable.

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After a brief respite, Lilibet’s arrival made international headlines. Public excitement was palpable, and even though Harry and Meghan had distanced themselves from royal duties, the family still released a congratulatory statement.

Unease and Congratulations 

Despite the joy surrounding Lilibet’s birth, tensions ran high between Harry and the rest of the Royal Family, who were still grappling with his decision to step back from royal responsibilities. The public watched closely to see how the Queen would respond to the announcement.

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Would she choose to ignore it? Instead, the Queen, along with Prince Charles and Camilla, issued a public statement expressing their delight at welcoming another grandchild into the family.

The Significance of a Name

While tensions remained, many assumed the Queen was pleased with the arrival of Lilibet, particularly given that the name was inspired by her own childhood nickname.

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In a joint statement, Harry and Meghan confirmed that their daughter was named in honor of the Queen, while her middle name, Diana, paid tribute to her late grandmother, the beloved Princess of Wales.

A Speech for Christmas

The Royal Family is often cautious about public statements, so it was no surprise that the Queen kept her remarks during the announcement of her 11th great-grandchild relatively reserved.

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However, during her Christmas speech, she expressed her joy at welcoming four new children into the Royal Family, indirectly celebrating Lilibet's arrival without mentioning her by name.

A Royal Revelation

In Spare, Harry opens up about his royal life, his love story with Meghan, and the profound changes following the birth of their two children.

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One of the most touching moments shared was Harry’s revelation that he personally delivered Lilibet, expressing his desire to be "the first face she saw." This intimate detail added a new layer to their parenting journey.

The Godfather Connection

Following the memoir, the couple launched a Netflix docuseries, offering a deeper look into their lives and the people who matter most to them. In the series, they announced that actor Tyler Perry would be Lilibet’s godfather. 

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This choice resonated with fans who were already aware of the strong bond between the family and Perry, who even provided them with a safe haven during their transition away from royal life.

Sticking to Their Principles

While Perry felt honored by the title, he had reservations about the traditional responsibilities that might come with being a royal godparent, particularly the expectation to travel to England for ceremonies. 

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Fortunately, by this time, Harry and Meghan had distanced themselves from royal duties, allowing them to maintain their decision despite any disapproval from the Royal Family.

A Special Celebration

The docuseries also showcased the couple’s day-to-day lives with their children, including heartwarming moments like Lilibet’s first birthday. The family celebrated this milestone at Frogmore Cottage, playing in the garden and reveling in their newfound privacy.

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Fans noticed that Lilibet’s birthday cake was made by the same baker who created Harry and Meghan’s wedding cake, a sweet reminder of their love and commitment.

A Family Resemblance

Throughout the series, Harry and Meghan reflected on their children and their personalities. Harry noted that Archie clearly resembles his mother, with fans easily spotting the striking similarities between baby Archie and baby Meghan. Their bond was evident, showcasing the joy and pride they feel in their roles as parents.

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As the docuseries progressed, public interest in Lilibet grew. Viewers were eager to learn more about her personality. Would she inherit her father’s sweet demeanor or her mother’s confidence? The anticipation surrounding the new princess added an extra layer of excitement for fans following their life.

A Glimpse of Diana

Although Lilibet was just one year old at the time of filming, her parents have observed a remarkable personality that reminds them of the late Princess of Wales.

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They believe she embodies the same confidence and passion that Diana was known for. With her golden-reddish hair and bright blue eyes, Lilibet is indeed the spitting image of her grandmother, suggesting she will inherit Diana’s beauty.

Balancing Privacy and Fame

Harry and Meghan made the bold decision to step back from royal duties to lead a quieter, more private life. They are cautious about sharing their children’s lives with the public but occasionally provide fans with glimpses into their family. Understanding the nature of fame, they share snippets, while safeguarding their personal moments.

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In 2021, Meghan made a notable appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, discussing her new life and the adjustments that came with motherhood.

Navigating New Parenthood

During the interview, Meghan candidly spoke about the transitions they faced with the arrival of their second child. She humorously noted that while having one child is a hobby, having two children is “real parenting.” 

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Her pride in her children was evident, showing no regrets about stepping back from royal life to embrace her role as a mother.

Addressing Royal Concerns

While Meghan’s heartfelt expressions about her children delighted fans, there was one sensitive topic that many were eager for her to address: the Royal Family’s concerns regarding Lilibet’s skin tone. When asked about her children’s appearances, Meghan responded positively, easing fans’ worries. She mentioned that Lilibet has slightly darker hair than Archie, yet it still mirrors the light red hue of her father’s hair.

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According to Meghan, Archie’s hair has only become redder as he’s grown, and she anticipates a similar change for Lilibet. However, she also emphasized how her children share her features, highlighting the beautiful blend of both parents.

Problems with Red Hair

Despite their love for their children, Harry and Meghan candidly discuss the challenges Harry faced regarding his red hair during his time in the Royal Family. Being the only member with such distinct coloring left him feeling out of place and fueled rumors about his parentage.

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Harry elaborates on this struggle in his book, revealing that even his father made jokes about it, suggesting he was not Prince Charles’s biological child but rather the son of Major James Hewitt.

Harry’s Challenges 

In his candid memoir, Spare, Harry opened up about the challenges he faced as a young prince. He candidly addressed the speculation surrounding his red hair, not just from Major Hewitt but from cruel tabloids that perpetuated rumors of his "illegitimacy."

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Harry described how the media treated these rumors as a joke, which only heightened his feelings of isolation within the Royal Family. With no evidence to support the claims, the constant scrutiny from the public intensified his sense of separation.

Embracing Shared Heritage

Now, as a father of two with the same red hair, Prince Harry no longer feels that loneliness. He proudly identifies with his children, Lilibet and Archie, celebrating their similarities without the shadow of speculation that haunted his own childhood.

@Mar 15, 2024/biography.com

Growing up feeling like the "spare" brother to Prince William left him feeling second-best but he’s determined to ensure his children never feel that way.

Sibling Rivalry

During a 2023 interview with Hello! Magazine, Harry shared insights into fatherhood that shed light on his relationship with his brother. He noted how he now understands the dynamic of being an “annoying” younger sibling.

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With Lilibet adoring her big brother Archie, Harry recognizes how Archie sometimes needs space as Lilibet follows him around, eager to imitate everything he does. As fans of the Royal Family, we can’t help but find humor in this relatable sibling dynamic while sympathizing with Archie’s position.

Fatherhood

Becoming a parent has shifted Harry’s perspective on his own upbringing. He often questioned his father’s decisions but now understands the complexity of parenting, including making tough choices that may not always be popular.

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Driven by his desire to break the cycle of pain he experienced, Harry is committed to ensuring that his children grow up feeling secure and loved, free from the burdens he once carried.

Building a Blissful Family Life

Ultimately, Harry and Meghan's priority is to create a joyful childhood for Lilibet and Archie. Their decision to step back from royal duties was made to safeguard their family, even at the cost of strained relationships with certain family members. Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, plays a significant role in their lives, while Meghan’s father, Thomas Markle, has been a vocal critic since she joined the royal ranks.

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The public remains particularly interested in Lilibet and Archie’s relationship with their great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. It’s touching to know that the Queen had the opportunity to meet Lilibet during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022, a cherished moment for the family.

Lilibet Meets the Queen

The momentous occasion of Queen Elizabeth II meeting her great-granddaughter, Princess Lilibet, took place during her Platinum Jubilee. This grand event not only celebrated the Queen’s remarkable reign but also served as a heartfelt family reunion, drawing the Royals and the world together in a time of joy.

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made a special trip to London, bringing along their two young children to show their unwavering support for the Queen, a beloved grandmother. This gathering marked a significant milestone for the family, especially given the backdrop of their recent challenges.

A Joyful Family Reunion

The Jubilee also marked the first meeting between King Charles and Lilibet. Reports indicated that he was overjoyed to see how much Archie had grown since their last encounter.

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The atmosphere was filled with warmth, as family members put aside their differences for the sake of the children. For that day, it seemed as if the Royal Family had found a way to reconnect.

An Emotional Moment for King Charles

Sources close to the family revealed that this gathering was one of the best they had experienced in years. Prince Charles, who had faced challenges in connecting with his grandchildren due to the fallout with Harry and Meghan, felt a wave of emotion during this meeting.

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He had longed for quality time with his family, and seeing Lilibet was a poignant reminder of their shared bonds.

The Importance of Timing

Despite the lingering strains in their relationship, both Harry and his father felt grateful for the opportunity to meet Lilibet.

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Had Harry not attended the Jubilee, he would have regretted that his daughter never got to meet the grandmother she was named after, especially with the Queen passing just months later. The timing of this trip felt serendipitous, providing a bittersweet moment in their complicated family dynamic.

A Legacy Lives On

Tragically, Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022, leaving a void felt around the world. Her legacy lives on through her family, especially in Princess Lilibet.

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Fans took solace in knowing that the Queen had met her great-granddaughter, reinforcing the importance of family connections that transcend turmoil.

Harry’s Reflection on His Bond with the Queen

Harry’s relationship with his grandmother was particularly close, making her passing all the more poignant for him.

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From across the globe, he expressed his grief and the profound impact she had on their family. In his statement, he emphasized her role as a guiding light not just for him but for millions throughout Britain.

Saying Goodbye to a Beloved Grandmother

Harry's heartfelt response to the Queen’s death highlighted the significant role she played in shaping his identity. Despite some familial tensions, it was clear that her influence remained strong.

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Unexpectedly, Harry publicly honored her memory soon after her passing, expressing gratitude for her guidance.

A Connection Across Generations

Harry’s letter to the Queen reinforced his commitment to keeping his children connected to their royal heritage.

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Though the media spotlight was intense, he confirmed that both Archie and Lilibet had spent cherished time with their great-grandmother, strengthening family bonds amid the complexity of royal life.

A Heartfelt Farewell

Reading Harry’s letter was an emotional experience for many royal fans. It revealed a candid glimpse into his memories with the Queen and the affection he held for her.

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Notably, he shared how she welcomed Meghan, a sensitive subject given the scrutiny Meghan faced within the family.

Honoring Queen’s Elizabeth II Memory

Harry’s emotional tribute resonated with the public, contrasting sharply with the often-stoic statements typically released by the Royal Family. His heartfelt expression of loss demonstrated a more vulnerable side, indicating his personal growth since stepping back from royal duties.

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While familial relationships may still be strained, the bond he shared with his grandmother remains a cherished legacy for him and his children.

Grief in the Spotlight

When news of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing reached the world, Harry and Meghan were already under intense scrutiny. Many questioned Harry’s decision to leave the Royal Family, wondering whether he would even attend his grandmother’s lying-in-state.

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However, Harry and Meghan arrived hand-in-hand, visibly affected by the loss. Their first public appearance since stepping back from royal duties drew significant attention, highlighting the emotional impact of the Queen’s death on Harry.

Attention on the Couple

As the nation mourned, the media fixated on Harry and Meghan, diverting attention from the solemnity of the occasion. Cameras frequently zoomed in on the couple, making it challenging for them to grieve privately.

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Their occasional affectionate gestures, intended to comfort one another, drew criticism from a public still unforgiving of Harry’s choices.

The Challenge of Public Perception

At the funeral, Harry and Meghan adjusted their behavior, seemingly hoping to appease critics. They were less affectionate but this only led to further criticism for their perceived coldness.

@Top 10 Shocking Things We Learned from the Meghan & Harry Interview/ms mojo/youtube.com

Meghan faced backlash for her choice of a simple black dress, which some deemed inappropriate for the occasion. It became clear that no matter their actions, the couple found themselves in a lose-lose scenario.

Harry's Outspoken Frustration

Harry later expressed his frustration over the relentless media scrutiny during an interview with Oprah. He described the constant attention as infuriating, especially when it targeted his loved ones.

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The relentless coverage reminded him of the tragic fate of his mother, who lost her life fleeing aggressive paparazzi. Protecting his family from similar experiences is a priority for him.

The Media's Unforgiving Lens

The British media’s treatment of Meghan was particularly harsh, and Harry’s frustrations were compounded by her lack of acceptance within the Royal Family.

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Reports indicated that while Prince William and Harry visited the Queen to pay their respects, Meghan stayed home with their children, prompting speculation about her respect for the Queen.

Moments of Connection

Harry’s desire to support Meghan during the funeral was evident. Observers noted how he would squeeze her hand for comfort, highlighting the strain of being around those who had publicly criticized her.

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The couple faced the dual challenge of mourning the Queen while navigating the critical eyes of the media.

Short Stay in London

After spending about two weeks in London, Harry and Meghan returned to the United States, leaving their children behind.

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While the British media criticized them for leaving shortly after the funeral, many fans applauded their efforts to connect with family amid ongoing negativity.

A Hopeful Future for Family Ties

Sources close to Harry revealed that their move to the U.S. is not permanent. The couple sought distance from the British public to allow tensions to cool. Harry still cherishes memories of his childhood in England and hopes to return to his true home one day.

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Despite the strained relationships within the Royal Family, Harry is determined to ensure his children have a connection to their heritage. He misses friends and family in the UK and wants his children to know their roots.

Prioritizing Safety Above All

Yet, Harry’s concerns for his family’s safety remain paramount. After stepping back from royal duties, they lost access to royal security.

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The couple feels they must remain in America until they can ensure their safety back in the UK, where Meghan is often the target of public disdain.

Embracing Life Stateside

Life in America has its perks for Harry and Meghan. They enjoy a lovely home, good weather, and a more active lifestyle. While they still face public scrutiny, it pales compared to what they experienced in the UK.

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For now, Harry and Meghan are committed to providing their children with the best upbringing possible, free from the drama and criticism that once defined their lives as royals.