Prince Harry turned 40 on Sunday (15 September) and marked the milestone with his wife Meghan and their two children, as well as plans to celebrate on a boys' trip with friends. And it's hard to believe how much has changed for Harry since his last significant birthday. A decade ago, when he turned 30, the Duke Of Sussex was still a working royal, unmarried, childless, and seemingly close to his now estranged brother Prince William and sister-in-law Kate.
In fact, it was reported that in the lead up to his 30th birthday in 2014, William and Kate planned an intimate birthday dinner for Harry, inviting family members including his Royal cousins Princesses Beatrice, Eugenie and Zara Tindall, as well as close friends, to Kensington Palace. However, Harry reportedly cancelled the party at the last minute as his birthday approached.
Just before the big day, the now-Princess of Wales began suffering from severe morning sickness while pregnant with Princess Charlotte. Kensington Palace officials confirmed at the time that Kate was experiencing morning sickness after becoming pregnant for the second time. In light of his sister-in-law's illness, Harry decided to call off the party, reports the Mirror.
A source revealed to the Mirror: "Harry was in no doubt that the party should be postponed, even though 30 is an important milestone. Kate had been very involved in organising Harry's party, and once she fell ill he felt it wrong to let the event go ahead."
Yet, Vanity Fair reports that the celebration eventually happened, just at Clarence House rather than Kensington Palace. And King Charles allegedly sent over some bubbly for the guests' enjoyment.
As for his significant 40th birthday, word has it that Harry will jet off with a few of his nearest and dearest mates post-celebration this week - but Meghan will remain at home with their two kids.
The exact destination of the Duke's getaway remains under wraps, but PEOPLE magazine, favoured by the Sussexes, hinted that Harry's plans include a "gathering of close friends internationally". Among those could be polo buddy Nacho Figueras.
Harry's past escapades have included a notorious Las Vegas trip in 2012, where he was snapped living it up in 'Sin City'. However, before setting off with the boys, Harry intends to spend quality time on his birthday with Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet. PEOPLE notes that the gathering with pals is scheduled after family celebrations at their Montecito residence.
Just a day before his birthday, Harry expressed the joy he's found in being a dad. "The best gift I've ever been given is, without a doubt, my kids," he expressed. "I enjoy watching them grow every single day, and I love being their dad."
