Duchess of Sussex to celebrate quietly with family as royals may extend olive branch
Meghan Markle is set to celebrate her 44th birthday on August 4, and despite ongoing tensions with the Royal Family, she may still receive well-wishes from senior royals—including King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Princess of Wales.
According to former royal butler Grant Harrold, the family’s long-standing commitment to etiquette and tradition may override any personal grievances. “As far as the Royal Family congratulating or wishing a happy birthday, I believe the King and Queen will wish her a happy birthday,” Harrold shared in an interview with Heart Bingo. “I think Catherine as well, but Catherine might do it on behalf of her and William.”
Although Meghan’s relationship with the Princess of Wales has been widely scrutinised—especially since the much-discussed 2018 bridesmaid dress incident—Harrold believes polite gestures such as birthday greetings or even small gifts are likely. “The thing with the Royal Family is that when it comes to politeness and manners, they are the top of the game,” he added.
Meghan is expected to mark the occasion with a low-key celebration in Montecito alongside Prince Harry and their children, Archie, 6, and Lilibet, 4. The family was recently seen enjoying a relaxed day at a California beach in the lead-up to her birthday.
While a full reconciliation with the Royal Family remains uncertain, small acts of civility—such as acknowledging Meghan’s birthday—may help maintain a sense of dignity and mutual respect on both sides.
