The criticism stems from the fact that the portrait was taken back in April by photographer Josh Shinner, the same shoot used to mark George’s 12th and Louis’ seventh birthdays.
A year of fresh beginnings
The Waleses’ 2025 Christmas card comes after a particularly challenging period for the family. William described 2024 as “brutal,” according to Sky News, while Catherine revealed earlier this year that she had fully recovered from cancer. Since her diagnosis, the family has largely stayed out of the public eye.
In an interview with The Times, Prince William called the experience “the hardest year of my life.” Catherine has been in remission since January, marking a hopeful new chapter for the family.
The couple has also moved into Forest Lodge, an eight-bedroom home in Windsor Great Park, symbolizing a new chapter. Catherine recently hosted her fifth Together at Christmas carol service, celebrating community heroes who make a difference.