The world was abuzz when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle seemingly broke their long-standing tradition of keeping their children, Archie and Lilibet, out of the spotlight. Earlier this month, a set of photos featuring the couple’s rarely-seen children surfaced, sparking intense reactions across social media. Fans, critics, and royal watchers alike couldn’t help but weigh in on what was billed as the Sussex children’s “first public appearance in years.”
The images appeared to show Archie, five, and Lilibet, three, running joyfully toward their parents, with their backs turned to the camera. The moment seemed perfect — almost too perfect — as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex embraced their children in a heartwarming display of family unity. For many, it was a touching reminder of the importance of togetherness during the holiday season.
However, not everyone was convinced. While some royal fans praised the photos as a refreshing glimpse into Harry and Meghan’s family life, others were quick to question their authenticity. Allegations began circulating online that the image had been manipulated, with accusations ranging from minor retouching to outright fabrication. Critics pointed to several anomalies: the angles of the children’s legs, the lighting on Meghan’s face, and even the supposed low resolution of the image.
But what added even more fuel to the fire was the card accompanying the photos, which carried a blunt message: “I feel sorry for you all.” While it’s unclear who the intended audience was, the statement felt provocative, stirring heated debates about the couple’s relationship with the public and the media.
For four days, social media users speculated about the origins of the controversial photos. Were they genuine snapshots of a private family moment? Or were they part of a carefully staged PR effort by the Sussexes?
The mystery deepened when some eagle-eyed fans pointed out peculiar details in the images. Archie’s trouser seam seemed to jut out awkwardly, while the children’s hands and feet were conveniently out of frame — something AI-generated images notoriously struggle to depict accurately. These discrepancies, combined with the polished look of the photos, only added to the swirling theories.
It wasn’t until a closer examination of the source emerged that the shocking truth came to light: the photos weren’t shared by Harry and Meghan at all. They were, in fact, created by a member of the couple’s unofficial fanbase, known as the “Sussex Squad.”
The so-called “new photos” of Archie and Lilibet were part of an AI-generated Christmas card crafted by an anonymous fan on Canva Pro. The card featured a black-and-white image of the children, along with the Sussex family’s rescue beagles. At first glance, the digital card appeared to be an authentic holiday greeting from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
However, upon closer inspection, several signs gave away its artificial origins. The AI-generated Archie was dressed in a cable-knit sweater and cargo pants, while Lilibet wore a floral dress reminiscent of past public appearances. Critics noted glaring issues, such as the unnatural curve of tiles around Lilibet’s legs, Archie’s fading hairline, and one of the dog’s legs disappearing into the background.
Despite the card’s obvious flaws, it spread like wildfire across social media, with many believing it to be an official release from Harry and Meghan. The backlash was swift, as royal fans slammed the Sussex Squad for their “ridiculous” attempt to pass off AI-generated images as real.
Once the truth was revealed, reactions were mixed. Some accused the Sussex Squad of crossing a line by creating fabricated images of the couple’s children. Others, however, saw it as a harmless attempt to show support for the Duke and Duchess in the face of ongoing criticism.
“It’s getting ridiculous at this point,” one social media user wrote. “The kids don’t even look like brother and sister. They look exactly what they are: AI.”
Another added, “The dogs are hysterical. Look at their legs — AI can’t even get that right.”
While some dismissed the incident as a minor controversy, it underscored the intense scrutiny Harry and Meghan face in their attempts to balance public and private life.
This latest drama comes amidst a broader debate about the use of AI in media and the lengths fans (and critics) will go to either support or undermine public figures. While the Sussex Squad’s intentions may have been well-meaning, the incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of blurring the lines between reality and artificial creation.
As for Harry and Meghan, the couple has yet to comment on the controversy. Whether or not they were aware of the AI-generated card, the episode highlights the challenges they face as they navigate their unique position in the public eye.
For now, one thing is clear: the world’s fascination with the Sussexes — and their children — shows no signs of waning.
