Getty Images placed an editor's note on a photo of the late Queen Elizabeth II surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, taken by Kate Middleton, indicating digital enhancement. This comes after Middleton's previous manipulated photo controversy. The incident raises questions about the royal family's reputation and trustworthiness, especially amid speculation surrounding Middleton's absence. The use of AI to manipulate images further complicates the issue, leading to increased scrutiny and loss of trust in the royal family as a reliable source.
The first official photo of Princess Kate Middleton released by the UK royal family since her abdominal surgery has been removed by news agencies, including AFP, over concerns that the image was manipulated. The photo, taken by Prince William, shows Kate sitting with her three children to mark Mother's Day. Kate has been recovering at home in Windsor since leaving the hospital on January 29. Speculation about her absence from the spotlight arose despite Kensington Palace's statement that she would be unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter, and that her surgery was not related to cancer.
A photo of Kate Middleton with her children, released to celebrate Mother's Day, has been pulled by The Associated Press and other photo agencies over claims that it was manipulated. Speculation about Middleton's health and whereabouts has been ongoing since her abdominal surgery in January, with rumors continuing despite a brief statement and the new photo. The image showed Middleton without her wedding ring, adding to the speculation. Middleton's medical team indicated she would likely not resume public duties until Easter, later this month.
