Why Meghan and Harry Reportedly Didn't Attend Kate's Birthday Celebrations
The Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton celebrated her 37th birthday earlier this month, but her brother- and sister-in-law Prince Harry and Meghan Markle weren't in attendance. Find out why here.

Kate Middleton celebrated her 37th birthday earlier this month, but her brother- and sister-in-law Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly didn't attend the birthday festivities. Don't worry, though—it has nothing to do with the reported "tension" and "feud rumors" between Kate and Meghan the media has been talking about for months.
RELATED STORY
Every year, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge typically celebrate Kate's birthday with close friends at their Norfolk home near the Queen's Sandringham estate (where the whole royal family spends Christmas together). Think: people like Will's old friend Thomas van Straubenzee and Kate's best friend Sophie Carter, who attended Harry and Meghan's wedding last May (and also used to date, FYI). Kate and William invite them to "take part in a shoot and also attend church on Sunday with the Queen."
"It wasn't a case of any rift. Just that, oftentimes, William and Kate spend time with their friends and certainly, Harry has not attended every birthday celebration," a royal source told Entertainment Tonight. "Kate and William have a close group of friends called the 'Turnip Toffs' based nearby their Anmer Hall home and they spend as much time there when their work in London allows."
So, no, there are no underlying issues between the Fab Four that caused Harry and Meg not to celebrate the day with the Cambridge's—just a simple case of Kate wanting to spend her birthday with friends. Even Wills had to be away from his wife for part of the day.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORY
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Rachel Epstein is a writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. Most recently, she was the Managing Editor at Coveteur, where she oversaw the site’s day-to-day editorial operations. Previously, she was an editor at Marie Claire, where she wrote and edited culture, politics, and lifestyle stories ranging from op-eds to profiles to ambitious packages. She also launched and managed the site’s virtual book club, #ReadWithMC. Offline, she’s likely watching a Heat game or finding a new coffee shop.
-
Princess Kate and Duchess Sophie's Relationship Is "One of the Most Important Partnerships"
The royal duo has formed "an unbreakable bond" over the years.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Hailey Bieber Color-Coordinates With Her New Rhode Pop-Up Shop
She's all-in on this color trend.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Princess Kate Wore Princess Diana's Priceless Ring During a Risky Activity
It was a choice.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
How Meghan Markle Included a Sentimental Nod to Prince Harry—and Queen Elizabeth—in the Logo for As Ever
The design is full of meaning.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Meghan Markle Launches Her 'As Ever' Era in a White Button-Down Shirt and Classic Jeans
The big announcement was a return to basics.
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
How Meghan Markle Included Princess Lilibet—and Their Stunning Backyard—in Her New Brand, As Ever
The rarely-seen toddler shared in the excitement for her mom's As Ever brand launch announcement.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
The Deeper Meaning Behind Meghan Markle's Reimagined Brand, As Ever
"This new chapter is an extension of what has always been my love language," the Duchess of Sussex wrote on Instagram.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Meghan Markle Paid Tribute to Her Friend's Late Son and His Twin With a Touching New Heart Necklace
She wore the gorgeous red pendant in the announcement video for her new brand, As Ever.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince Harry Reportedly Had a Safety Scare at the Invictus Games and Was Forced to Leave an Event Early
The Duke of Sussex was apparently "ushered out" by his security team.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Harry Had a Royal Family Reunion at the Invictus Games With Two Unexpected Royals
The Duke of Sussex was joined by the prince and princess at a sitting volleyball game.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet Will Likely Make Their Joint Royal Debut at this Event
Fans might have to wait a while.
By Kristin Contino Published