After weeks of speculation surrounding Kate Middleton’s health, Kensington Palace released a Mother’s Day photo of the Princess of Wales with her three children. However, instead of quelling rumors, the image sparked controversy and conspiracy theories.
Experts and social media users quickly pointed out apparent Photoshop errors, including Princess Charlotte’s half-missing sleeve and blurred skirt, and Kate’s misplaced zip. Some claimed Kate’s left hand lacked a wedding ring, fueling speculation about her marriage.
News agencies, including The Associated Press, Reuters, Getty Images, and Agence France-Presse, issued “kill notices” due to concerns about the image’s authenticity. Dr. Hany Farid, a computer sciences professor, described the editing as a “bad Photoshop job.”
Kate Middleton took to social media to address the controversy, admitting she had edited the photo herself. “Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing,” she wrote. “I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared caused.”
The incident has put Kensington Palace under pressure, with royal expert Katie Nicholl stating that the recall of the image by four international picture agencies is “highly unusual” and may force the palace’s hand.
Meanwhile, Kate’s uncle, Gary Goldsmith, revealed details about her health recovery on Celebrity Big Brother, saying she’s receiving “the best care in the world” and will return to her royal duties. However, royal expert Jennie Bond claims Goldsmith’s comments may have upset Kate, who is likely feeling “fragile” and “depressed” during her recovery.
The controversy surrounding Kate Middleton’s health and the manipulated photo has raised questions about the royal family’s handling of private matters and the public’s right to know.
