This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
As the seventh in line to the throne, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor has already begun to break royal conventions. Born to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, his first year of life has been anything but ordinary.
On May 8, 2020, the world caught its first glimpse of the royal baby at a photocall at Windsor Castle. Meghan gushed about her son's temperament, saying, 'He has the sweetest temperament. He's just been the dream, so it's been a special couple of days.'
Fast forward to Archie's first birthday, and it's clear that his parents have no intention of following traditional royal protocol. The couple had initially planned a birthday bash with their A-list friends, including tennis legend Serena Williams and actress Priyanka Chopra. However, the coronavirus lockdown in California has forced them to rethink their plans.
According to a royal source, the birthday celebrations will be a low-key affair, with just the three of them – Meghan, Harry, and Archie – in attendance. The source explained, 'It will be just the three of them. Meghan understandably refuses to take any risks with guests or travel.'
Despite the unconventional celebrations, it's clear that Archie's parents are committed to giving him a unique upbringing. Royal biographer Penny Junor noted, 'Now they are cut off from family it is hard for everybody. On the day they will no doubt make many calls to family.'
As Archie grows up, it's likely that he will have a very different experience from his cousins, Prince William and Kate's children. Penny Junor observed, 'Archie is different. He's in a different country so won't grow up around extended family.'
However, it's clear that Archie will never be short of love. Harry is fiercely proud of his son, and it's a life wish come true for him. As for expanding their family, the couple has expressed a desire to have two children, maximum.
