A prominent UK news agency, PA, has withdrawn a picture of the Princess of Wales and her children, making it the fifth picture service to do so due to concerns about the image’s authenticity.
This move follows four international photo agencies retracting the picture over worries it may have been “manipulated”.
The photo, captured by Prince William for Mother’s Day, marked the first release of Catherine by Kensington Palace since her surgery in January.
However, concerns arose about the alignment of Princess Charlotte’s left hand, prompting Getty Images, AFP, Reuters and Associated Press to withdraw the image.
PA news agency initially provided the photo “in good faith” after Kensington Palace posted it on social media. However, upon receiving reports about the image’s authenticity concerns, PA sought clarification from the Palace without success, leading them to remove it from their service.
The photo depicts the princess surrounded by her children, with Prince George embracing her. It served as the first official photo of the Princess of Wales following her recent surgery, during which she remained out of the public eye.
Despite efforts to use the image to update the public and curb speculation surrounding the princess’s health, the emergence of concerns regarding its authenticity has reignited rumors and discussion on social media platforms.
Catherine, 42, underwent abdominal surgery and spent nearly two weeks at the London Clinic for her recovery. Details about her condition remain limited, with the Palace emphasising her desire for privacy and normalcy for her children during this time. Updates on her recovery will only be provided when significant new information arises.
While the intention behind releasing the photo was likely to offer reassurance, its withdrawal and subsequent scrutiny underscore the challenges the royal family faces in balancing privacy with public interest.
[Image via Prince Of Wales]