Why King Charles won't publicly congratulate Prince Harry on his birthday

Prince Harry, who turns 42 today, is celebrating his birthday for the first time on British soil in four years. 

His wife Meghan Markle was early to mark the special occasion on Tuesday morning with a heartfelt montage made up of pictures from their private family album with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. But as the birthday messages flood in throughout the day, Harry's father King Charles is one person who isn't expected to publicly congratulate the royal this year.

While Charles and Prince William both wished Harry a happy birthday for his milestone 40th in 2024, the palace typically reserves public tributes for senior working royals. 

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Since Harry and Meghan stepped back from the royal family in 2020, the royals have stopped the public birthday posts with the exception of Harry's 40th. There was notably no post for Meghan's 45th birthday on 4 August, which she celebrated at home in Montecito with her nearest and dearest. 

Harry and Meghan's royal status

After six years in California, the Sussexes returned to the UK last month for a new family chapter. The family have been settling into life outside of London, where they remain non-working royals. 

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Charles clarified the couple's royal status following their UK move in a "letter of guidance" to senior stakeholders that was made public and sent on behalf of the monarch. The Lord Chamberlain stated there is "no change" to the Sussexes' status, and their Royal Highness titles should not be used. 

Palace official Lord Benyon confirmed the couple will remain as "private citizens".

Harry's last milestone birthday

While Harry rang in his 40th across the pond in the States, back in the UK, his father and brother both publicly marked the milestone with unexpected personal messages. 

Sharing a photo of a beaming Harry to the official royal family account, Charles wrote he was "wishing The Duke of Sussex a very happy 40th birthday today!". 

The Prince and Princess of Wales joined in on the celebrations, posting on their Instagram Stories: "Wishing a Happy 40th Birthday to the Duke of Sussex." This year marks the first time Harry has been in the UK for his birthday in four years.