KEY POINTS

  • Kate Middleton and Queen Elizabeth II laugh in the duchess' birthday photos
  • Meghan Markle and Prince Harry quit their royal roles
  • Queen Elizabeth II disappointed in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

Kate Middleton and Queen Elizabeth II laugh together in the Duchess of Cambridge’s birthday photos despite Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s shocking announcement.

Many feared that the duchess’ birthday celebration would be overshadowed by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s announcement that they were quitting their royal roles. However, the royal family kept a united front and went on to celebrate Middleton’s special day despite the noise the Sussexes created.

Buckingham Palace paid tribute to Prince Willam’s wife by posting a sweet birthday message for the Duchess of Cambridge on Instagram. The palace shared three photos of Middleton with the Queen. One of the snaps was taken when the duchess and the Queen were in Nottingham for Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee tour in 2012. In the snap, the two are seated beside each other with huge smiles on their faces.

The second photo was taken at the Chelsea Flower Show last year and the third one was when they made a rare joint royal engagement together at the opening of the Bush House, which was previously the BBC World Service headquarters.

“Wishing The Duchess of Cambridge a very Happy Birthday!” the caption read.

Kensington Palace also released a never-before-seen photo of Middleton sitting on a fence. The duchess looks relaxed in her sweater and jeans. The picture was reportedly taken by Matt Porteous at the Cambridges’ country home in Norfolk, Daily Mail reported.

A day before Middleton’s birthday, Prince Harry and Markle made a shocking announcement. The Sussexes said that they are quitting as senior members of the royal family. They promised to continue to collaborate with Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Prince William and other relevant parties of the monarchy. The royal couple also said that they will be working to be financially independent.

The monarch was reportedly furious and disappointed because Prince Harry and Markle didn’t consult them ahead of the announcement. The members of the Firm only learned about the Sussexes’ decision when it was reported on TV.

Markle was slammed on social media for ruining Prince Harry. Many felt that the former “Suits” star is taking the duke away from his family. Several also mocked Prince Harry for being “weak” and letting his wife take control of him.

Queen Elizabeth II and Kate Middleton
Kate Middleton and Queen Elizabeth II smile as they visit Vernon Park during a Diamond Jubilee visit to Nottingham on June 13, 2012 in Nottingham, England. Getty Images/Chris Jackson