Royal family break years of silence in public tribute to Prince Harry
The royal family has wished Prince Harry a happy birthday in a public social media post in a surprise to many.
This is the first time in three years British royals have acknowledge the birthday of the Duke of Sussex in this way.
King Charles and Camilla kicked things off with their tribute – a message that began with the birthday cake emoji.
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The post was simple, reading: "Wishing The Duke of Sussex a very happy 40th birthday today!"
It was then shared by the Prince and Princess of Wales on the couple's Instagram Stories and on X. However, Prince William and Catherine chose not to add their own sentiments to the post.
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This is the first time in three years that Harry's birthday has been publicly acknowledged. Instagram/Prince and Princess of Wales
This is the first time in three years that Harry's birthday has been acknowledged by the British royals. It is understood that annual birthday wishes are typically reserved for working members of the British royal family.
An exception seems to have been made due to the milestone, with Harry turning 40 on September 15.
The royal family has wished Prince Harry a 'very happy 40th birthday.' Getty
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex resigned as senior working royals in January 2020, moving to Montecito, California.
Ahead of his milestone, Harry said he was "excited" to be turning 40.
"I was anxious about 30, I'm excited about 40," he told the BBC in a statement released through an Archewell spokesperson.
"Whatever the age, my mission is to continue showing up and doing good in the world".
He continued: "Becoming a father of two incredibly kind and funny kids has given me a fresh perspective on life, as well as sharpening my focus in all my work."
"Being a dad is one of life's greatest joys and has only made me more driven and more committed to making this world a better place."
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex resigned as senior working royals in January 2020. AP
Prince Harry has reportedly inherited millions of dollars upon his 40th birthday, left to him by his late great-grandmother, the Queen Mother.
William and Harry were due to share about £6 million ($11 million) when they turned 21 and the other £8 million ($15 million) released to them once they reached 40.
Prince Harry has reportedly inherited millions of dollars upon his 40th birthday. AP
Prince Harry reportedly celebrated his birthday with a private celebration at home with wife Meghan and their two children, Archie, five, and Lilibet, three.
It isn't known of the royal family's birthday wishes will lead to a thawing of their relationships with the Duke of Sussex.
It isn't known of the royal family's birthday wishes will lead to a thawing of their relationships with Harry. AP
Harry's last trip to the UK was to attend his uncle's funeral in August. Both Harry and Prince William were at Robert Fellowes' funeral at St Mary's Church in Snettisham, Norfolk.
It isn't known if the pair spoke orcrossed paths.
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