Former BBC correspondent Michael Cole recently voiced criticism of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's handling of their son Archie's fifth birthday, despite his UK birth before the couple relocated to California.
Archie received no birthday wishes from the royal family on social media, a customary practice for other members. Speaking to GB News, Cole emphasized that the Queen's eighth grandchild has faced peculiar treatment from birth. This treatment includes the controversial photo call chosen by Prince Harry and Meghan.
During the discussion with hosts Ben Leo and Beth Turner, Ben expressed disappointment that Archie hasn't had the chance to grow up with his royal cousins in the UK. Reflecting on Archie's birth, Cole mentioned the controversial photo call at Windsor, where the couple presented their newborn to the world's press but then took measures to shield him. Additionally, the Sussexes never confirmed Archie's birth location (the Portland Hospital in central London) or revealed his godparents' identities.
Despite the limited visibility of Archie since then, Megan ensures that she and her children remain in the headlines. Megan's PR team disclosed that both Harry and Megan declined an £8,000 birthday gift from King Charles for Archie. Tom Quinn, Megan's spokesperson, mentioned discussions about Charles sending one of his watercolor paintings as a gift, as Megan appreciates homemade presents over extravagant ones.
However, Charles, estranged from his youngest son and residing in the United States with his family, does not wish to intrude on Harry and Megan's boundaries with his gesture for Archie. The source claimed that Charles and his team are concerned about potential misinterpretation by Harry and Megan of any gifts sent to Archie. This concern stems from a past incident where Charles gifted Prince William's son, Prince George, an engraved handmade swing, which Harry deemed too grand.
Quinn also noted that Charles prefers a regular phone call with Archie on his birthday rather than a video call. While Charles has shown interest in video calling, he reportedly feels uncomfortable with the idea as it would involve conversing with Megan as well. The prospect of reaching out to Archie without engaging with Megan fills Charles with apprehension, according to Quinn.
The source also commented on Megan's extensive PR budget, jokingly suggesting she should be called "Madam Puff" due to the numerous flattering articles written about her. Buckingham Palace officials denied that King Charles had given any gifts to Archie, citing the monarch's busy schedule and lack of plans to meet or approach Harry's son on his birthday.
