Prince William and Kate Face Fan Criticism Over Their Christmas Card Photo

Family photos have long been a Christmas card tradition, and the royal family is no different. Each year, festive portraits offer a glimpse into both public milestones and more intimate family moments.

When the Prince and Princess of Wales shared their 2025 Christmas card, however, one particular detail quickly caught the internet’s attention—and not everyone was pleased.

Holiday cards have been part of royal life since the early 1800s. Handmade cards created by Queen Victoria’s children are still preserved today by the Royal Collection Trust. The practice of releasing official family photographs came later, beginning with King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. Over time, these images have become a familiar way for the monarchy to connect with the public during the festive season.

This year’s card from Prince William and Princess Catherine was released via Kensington Palace’s social media accounts and immediately sparked conversation. The image shows the couple seated on a grassy field in Norfolk, surrounded by flowers and their three children—Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, seven.

The atmosphere is warm and relaxed. Charlotte leans her head against William’s shoulder, holding his arm. Louis rests comfortably against his father, while Catherine wraps an arm around George and smiles at the camera. The message printed on the card is simple:

“Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas.”

But for some observers, something felt off.

“Is it really Christmas?”
While many fans praised the affectionate family dynamic, others questioned the lack of festive elements.

“Where is the Christmas?” one commenter asked bluntly.

Another wrote, “It’s very sweet—but not very seasonal. The children grow so quickly, it would be nice to see a more recent photo, in my opinion.”

Some even scrutinized the image itself. “Has there been more photo editing?” one person asked. “Where are Catherine’s legs? And why does William only seem to have one?”

Others echoed similar thoughts: “Why is there nothing Christmassy about it?” and “This photo was taken in April.”

Another commenter summed it up by saying, “Lovely picture, but I really wish they’d do a winter or Christmas-themed photo just once.”

The criticism stems from the fact that the image was taken in April by photographer Josh Shinner—the same session used for Prince George’s 12th birthday portrait and Prince Louis’ seventh.

This isn’t the first time the Wales family’s holiday card has sparked debate. Their 2024 card also drew attention, featuring a computer-generated snowy animation. That release coincided with Princess Catherine’s pre-recorded announcement that she had completed chemotherapy after revealing her cancer diagnosis earlier that year.

A year of renewal
The 2025 card arrives after a particularly difficult period for the family. Prince William previously described 2024 as “brutal,” according to Sky News, while Catherine confirmed earlier this year that she had fully recovered and is now in remission following her cancer treatment.

In an interview with The Times, William called it “the hardest year of my life.” Since Catherine’s diagnosis, the family has largely stepped back from public appearances, focusing on recovery and time together.

The couple has also recently moved into Forest Lodge, an eight-bedroom residence in Windsor Great Park, signaling a fresh start. Catherine hosted her fifth Together at Christmas carol service this year, honoring individuals who make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Christmas with the King
According to the BBC, Prince William and Princess Catherine are expected to spend Christmas Day at Sandringham with King Charles and Queen Camilla.

The King and Queen released their own Christmas card on December 7. Their portrait—also taken in April—commemorates their 20th wedding anniversary at Villa Wolkonsky, the British ambassador’s residence in Rome. Framed in deep red, their card features a traditional message:

“Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year.”

As always, royal holiday cards continue to spark admiration, debate, and discussion—proving that even the smallest details don’t go unnoticed.