Why Meghan Markle and Prince Harry "Can't" Share Many Photos of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet
"I would expect them to live smaller lives until that gets sorted."

As members of the British Royal Family, there has been a plethora of public interest in Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet since they were born. However, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's two children live a relatively low-key existence in Montecito, California. According to a new report, the absence of photos or content including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's kids is very much intentional, and unlikely to change anytime soon.
In a new Us Weekly profile, a friend of the Sussexes explained, "I think every parent wants to share their kid with the world, but they just can’t." The friend further explained that the lack of security in place to protect Prince Harry's family is a huge part of the reason Archie and Lilibet aren't in the spotlight very often.
"I think every parent wants to share their kid with the world."
Harry, of course, has been engaged in a legal battle in the U.K. regarding the removal of his security detail since stepping down as a senior royal. Even the late Queen reportedly noted the importance of providing Meghan, Harry, and their family with an appropriate security detail to protect them. Until the issue is resolved, Archie and Lilibet will likely live private lives, to ensure there is little risk to their safety.
"William’s kids, for example, have way more safety, even though they’re recognizable," a friend of the Sussexes told the outlet. "And the same doesn’t apply to Meghan and Harry’s children. They know the world wants to see [them but] I would expect them to live smaller lives until that gets sorted, if it ever does."
"William’s kids, for example, have way more safety."
Archie and Lilibet also aren't aware of their Royal Family connections, according to the article. A friend of the Sussexes noted, "they’ll have those conversations in due time." For now, though, Lilibet and Archie are apparently doing very well living their lives privately. "They’re so well-mannered," an insider told the outlet. "Archie is sweet and curious and playful, and Lili is vibrant and happy."
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Amy Mackelden is the weekend editor at Marie Claire, where she covers celebrity and royal family news. She was the weekend editor at Harper’s BAZAAR for three years, where she covered breaking celebrity and entertainment news, royal stories, fashion, beauty, and politics. Prior to that, she spent a year as the joint weekend editor for Marie Claire, ELLE, and Harper's BAZAAR, and two years as an entertainment writer at Bustle. Her additional bylines include Cosmopolitan, People, The Independent, HelloGiggles, Biography, Shondaland, Best Products, New Statesman, Heat, and The Guardian. Her work has been syndicated by publications including Town & Country, Good Housekeeping, Esquire, Delish, Oprah Daily, Country Living, and Women's Health. Her celebrity interviews include Jennifer Aniston, Jessica Chastain, the cast of Selling Sunset, Emma Thompson, Jessica Alba, and Penn Badgley. In 2015, she delivered an academic paper at Kimposium, the world's first Kardashian conference.
-
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
-
It-Girls Love This Rich-Looking Status Jacket
You'll spot it on It-girls everywhere.
By Brooke Knappenberger 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
-
All the Details on Princess Kate and Prince William's Seriously Luxe Mustique Vacation
From a $42k villa with a private butler to a celebrity-fave bar, the Waleses are enjoying some fun in the sun.
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
-
Prince Louis Included a Sweet Tribute to Mom Princess Kate in Adorable New Portrait
He's an artist in the making.
By Kristin Contino 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
-
Princess Kate "Put Her Foot Down" and Refused to Let George, Charlotte, and Louis Take Part in "Blooding" Tradition
The Princess of Wales is raising her kids on her own terms.
By Amy Mackelden Published