It seemed innocent enough: On March 10, Princess Kate shared a family photo on Instagram showing her seated in a chair, surrounded by her three smiling children - Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5. The caption wished her fellow U.K. moms a happy Mother's Day and thanked the public for their well-wishes following her recent abdominal surgery.
It was the first official photo of the princess to be released since her Jan. 16 procedure, and it appeared intended to reassure royal-watchers — who’d noted the future queen’s prolonged absence from public life, as well as a lack of communication from Kensington Palace about her health — that she was, in fact, on the mend.
But within hours, social media was in a frenzy over the image. Some skeptics questioned when the photo was taken, while others said it appeared to be digitally altered. Major news agencies swiftly recalled the photo, saying it had been “manipulated.” With that, conspiracy theories about Kate’s wellness and whereabouts reached a fever pitch online.
The following day, Kate addressed the photo controversy on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing,” and adding, in part, “I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion.” Later that afternoon, she was photographed in the back seat of a car with Prince William, reportedly on her way to an appointment. William, 41, headed to Westminster Abbey for the annual Commonwealth Day service without her.
This story is from the March 25, 2024 edition of Us Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 25, 2024 edition of Us Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
SCENES FROM Keke's Life
The multihyphenate mom entertains and empowers with a new book that's part memoir, part self-help guide
They Found Their Happily Ever After!
Bachelorette Joan Vassos gave her final rose to Chock Chapple and he gave her aring! In an Us exclusive, they talk about tying the knot not too soon), blending families and changing a black hole” of a future to one of hope
Jennifer Love Hewitt Turning Grief Into Growth
It's been 12 years since the actress lost her adored mom, but with a new book and TV movie, she faces up to the pain and reveals how tiny gestures and good intentions have brought magic back into her life
Charles & William Game of Thrones
As King Charles continues his cancer battle, plans for his son Prince William to succeed him are underway. Sources shed light on how the inevitable changing of the guard is causing tension behind palace doors
Jennifer Talks Money, Movies & Living in a Haunted House!
She's one of the most iconic actresses in Hollywood. But Jennifer Coolidge admits that there are a few misconceptions about her.
The Early Aughts Are in Fashion Again
The controversial looks of the 2000s seem to have come back around dazzlingly fast - so what is it about Y2K that's making stylish stars try their luck with low-rise jeans?
Why Joaquim & Gisele Aren't Rushing Into Marriage
They may be expecting, but Gisele Bündchen and Joaquim Valente are in no rush to tie the knot.
Inside Teddi's Affair with Her Horse Trainer
It seems we finally have answers as to what may have led to the sudden split of Teddi Mellencamp and Edwin Arroyave: The RHOBH alum had an affair with her married horse trainer, Simon Schroeder (inset).
Blessed With a Rainbow Baby
The couple are thrilled and excited” to be expecting following a devastating pregnancy loss
Ted Danson on Secret to Marriage With 'Magnificent' Mary Steenburgen
Ted Danson has worked with thousands of creatives in his nearly 50-year acting careerand out of all of Hollywood, there's one name he's eager to see on the call sheet again.