Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are about to celebrate their fifth and third Christmases. However, due to the ongoing rift with the royal family, they won’t be spending the holidays with their cousins or King Charles. The Sussexes haven’t been invited to Sandringham for Christmas.

This week, Harry and Meghan shared a Christmas card with new photos of their kids. But soon after, speculation arose about the photo being altered, reminiscent of the controversy over Kate Middleton’s Mother’s Day picture.

Although Harry and Meghan have focused on their careers this year, rumors about their marriage continue. Meghan is working on her lifestyle brand, while Harry remains committed to the Invictus Games. Despite being public figures, they’ve kept Archie and Lilibet out of the spotlight to protect their privacy.

Prince Harry & Meghan Markle ‘unable’ to show pictures of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet

A friend of Harry and Meghan, speaking anonymously, explained to US Magazine that the couple avoids publicly sharing photos of their children due to security concerns. They highlighted that while Prince William’s children enjoy stronger protection, Harry and Meghan’s kids face greater risks, complicating their public exposure.

A source told People Magazine that Harry’s caution stems from his desire to protect his children’s privacy and safety, especially after the tragic loss of his mother, Princess Diana.

Though the Sussexes can control their children’s privacy until they turn 18, they have a plan in place for their future beyond that.

How is Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet doing?

An insider told Express that Prince Harry and Meghan plan to give Archie and Lilibet full freedom once they turn 18. Until then, they aim to keep the kids out of the spotlight so they can grow up and form their own identities.

“They’ll choose their own path,” the source said, adding that the Sussex children might enjoy more freedom than their royal cousins in the UK.

A Us Weekly source also described Archie as “curious and playful,” while Lilibet is “happy and vibrant.” As the holidays approach, Harry and Meghan shared warm wishes and a six-photo card, saying, “We wish you a very happy holiday season.”

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The montage showed five photos from Harry and Meghan’s visits to Nigeria and Colombia earlier this year. But it was the final photo that really caught people’s attention. It featured a sweet moment with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet walking toward their parents, who were waiting with open arms and happy smiles. The kids are seen from behind, walking away from the camera. You can check out the photos here.

Although the new photo of Archie and Lilibet didn’t show their faces, it still sparked excitement among royal fans. Many were thrilled to see how much the children had grown, with some pointing out their striking red hair, just like Prince Harry’s.