“OMG! So unsafe”: The photo of Prince Harry and Lilibet shared by Meghan Markle that ignited buzz is in the comments.

On International Women’s Day, March 8, 2025, Meghan Markle shared a series of heartfelt photos on Instagram to honor the influential women in her life. Among these images was a rare snapshot of her husband, Prince Harry, cradling their three-year-old daughter, Princess Lilibet, during a boat ride. The photo, intended to showcase a tender family moment, quickly became the center of controversy as observers noted that Lilibet was not wearing a life jacket.

In California, where the Sussex family resides, state law mandates that all children under 13 wear a life jacket while aboard a moving vessel of any size. Social media users were swift to point out this oversight, labeling the couple as “irresponsible” and expressing concerns over the child’s safety. One user commented, “Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are so good at showing the world how much they suck at being parents,” while another questioned, “Where are the car seats? Where are the life vests? Do any children even live with them?”

This incident has reignited discussions about the couple’s parenting choices and their public portrayal. Previously, Prince Harry and Meghan have been cautious about sharing images of their children, primarily due to safety and privacy concerns. A friend of the couple noted that Harry has been “reluctant to show his children publicly, not out of a desire to hide them but to protect their privacy and safety from potential threats.”

The timing of the post also coincided with the announcement of the renewal of Meghan’s Netflix series, “With Love, Meghan,” for a second season. The show has faced mixed reviews, with some critics accusing Meghan of lacking authenticity. Despite the criticism, Meghan expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season, sharing a playful video on Instagram to celebrate the renewal.

While the intention behind sharing the family photo was to celebrate International Women’s Day and highlight the strong women in Meghan’s life, the ensuing backlash underscores the intense public scrutiny the couple continues to face. As public figures, their actions are frequently analyzed, often sparking debates about parenting, safety, and their roles outside the traditional royal framework.

In response to the controversy, discussions have emerged about the importance of adhering to safety protocols, especially when public figures are involved, as their actions can influence public behavior. Supporters of the couple argue that the boat may have been stationary or docked when the photo was taken, suggesting that the absence of life jackets might not indicate a safety lapse.

This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures in balancing personal moments with public expectations, particularly concerning the safety and well-being of their children.