Why Prince William May Miss Meghan Markle and Harry's Baby's Birth
This is about to be a very important time for the British royal family—the most obvious of which is the imminent royal baby from Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. But there's another, smaller moment that's equally important: Prince Louis's first birthday on April 23rd. And Prince William might miss them BOTH this year.


This is about to be a very important time for the British royal family—the most obvious of which is the imminent royal baby from Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. But there's another, smaller moment that's equally important: Prince Louis's first birthday on April 23. And Prince William might miss them BOTH this year.
In this case, there's a very, very good reason for it. William was asked by the prime minister of New Zealand to come to the country in the wake of the horrific Christchurch mosque shootings of only a few weeks ago.
Per the official announcement, "The Duke of Cambridge will meet with those affected by the Christchurch attack and will pay tribute to the extraordinary compassion and solidarity that the people of New Zealand have displayed in recent weeks."
I suspect that, at least in the case of Louis's birthday, they may have a separate celebration. For context: Just this past January, it was reported that George and Charlotte would miss Kate Middleton's birthday (or at least part of it) because they were at school. Then Prince William ALSO had a royal engagement that day. Frankly, I think that meant she had a lovely, relaxing holiday with fewer shrieks and bangs than usual—you KNOW George is rambunctious—and then a lovely family dinner.
Furthermore! Later that month it was revealed that Kate DID have a small event for her birthday some time after the day itself, and Harry and Meghan were nowhere to be found. But apparently there was no rift, just a case of Kate wanting to chill with some friends. So it's pretty common for the hectic royal schedule to cause some scheduling snafus.
So what's potentially likely is that Louis's birthday will simply be "postponed" until everyone can be there. The royal baby is a bit trickier—hard to control when someone goes into labor—but William will probably just be called on a secure line like the Queen to get the official word. Besides, the more important rendez-vous is between the kids. How will George, Charlotte, and Louis react to their new cousin??
HOWEVER. I think William might want to bring back some stuffed kangaroos or something for all the cute little babies that are missing him while he's away.
Here's the official request for William to visit:
The Duke of Cambridge will visit New Zealand on behalf of The Queen to honour the victims of the Christchurch mosques terrorist attack.The visit in late April will be made at the request of the Prime Minister of New Zealand. pic.twitter.com/rFPlDo8dmJMarch 27, 2019
And after a tragedy like that, it makes sense that he should be there. Should you want to show support for the Christchurch bombing victims and their families, we have a list of potential resources.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORIES
Katherine’s a Boston-based contributor at Marie Claire who covers fashion, culture, and lifestyle—from “The Bachelor” to Everlane to Meghan Markle. Igoe: “I go to the store,” not “Her huge ego."
-
The 'Bling Empire' Season 2 Cast: Your Guide
Kevin, Kane, Anna, and the rest of the gang are back.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
Meghan Markle Shared a Poignant Message About Working Moms as She Calls for More Childcare Support
Archewell is supporting the "National Business Coalition for Child Care."
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Kanye West Told Kim Kardashian She Was Dressed Like Marge Simpson and Her Career Was Over After the WSJ Innovator Awards
This is awful.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Meghan Markle Shared a Poignant Message About Working Moms as She Calls for More Childcare Support
Archewell is supporting the "National Business Coalition for Child Care."
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Kate Middleton Just Revealed Prince Louis' Favorite Superhero
A fine choice.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Princess Charlotte Got a Personalized Soccer Shirt During Her Parents' Visit to Scotland
IT'S SO CUTE.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince William Hugged a Grandfather in Glasgow: "It Felt Like a Son Hugging a Father"
Oh great, now I'm sobbing.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince William and Kate Middleton Looked So Happy Together in Scotland
They were there to hear about early childhood and mental health initiatives.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
An Apartment in Princess Diana's Old London Building Is for Sale for £3 Million
Bargain!!!
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Kate Middleton Is Every Bit the Fashion Icon Diana Was, Royal Expert Says
Hard agree.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
Prince William and Kate Middleton Honored the Victims of the Manchester Attack
They attended the Glade Of Light Memorial opening.
By Iris Goldsztajn