Happy birthday, Princess Lilibet!
That’s right – the youngest child of the Sussex family turns four today, and proud mum Meghan Markle marked the occasion with a touching photo shared on Instagram.
As expected, the sweet birthday tribute quickly sparked conversations across the internet, just like every time the Duchess of Sussex posts online.
“Happy birthday to our beautiful girl!” Meghan wrote in the caption.
“Four years ago today she came into our lives – and each day is brighter and better because of it.”
She added, “Thanks to all of those sending love and celebrating her special day!”
Meghan posted a beautiful black-and-white photo of herself holding Lilibet on what appears to be a boat, offering the most public glimpse yet of their daughter, who has mostly been kept out of the spotlight since her 2021 birth.
She also included a touching black-and-white image from the day Lilibet was born, adding to the sentimental tone of the post.
Since returning to social media on January 1 after a four-year absence, Meghan has been offering a more personal look into her and Prince Harry’s family life. But with that increased visibility has come ongoing backlash from online critics who scrutinize her every move. Because of this, Meghan has disabled the comment section on her Instagram account.
Earlier this month, for instance, a Mother’s Day post caused a stir when trolls accused Meghan of editing the image—specifically claiming she had photoshopped her son’s toes.
The same post also fueled more conspiracy theories, including claims that the children’s hair color appeared different and that they might not be the real Archie and Lilibet.
“Where is Archie’s and Lili’s red hair this week Meghan Markle?” one commenter asked, seemingly unaware that hair can appear to change color depending on lighting.
Another person added, “Her hair changed colour.”
“Different hair colour too,” wrote a third, while a fourth echoed, “Their hair is dark now too.”
One user even asked, “And what about Archie’s hair?” and added, “Coarse, thick, curly and red… to black and dead straight.”
More recently, Meghan’s birthday post for Lilibet has drawn new attention, with some users pointing out that her legs appear noticeably shorter compared to the Mother’s Day photo.
Meghan, 43, and Prince Harry, 40, were married in 2018 and welcomed their first child, Prince Archie, now six, the following year. Lilibet arrived in 2021.
In 2020, the couple stepped back from their royal duties and relocated to California, Meghan’s home state, where they’ve been raising their family away from the royal spotlight.
Lilibet’s full name, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, carries deep family significance. Her middle name honors Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana, who tragically died when he was just 12. Her first name, Lilibet, was a cherished nickname used by close friends and family for the late Queen Elizabeth.