On Sunday, the first image of Princess Catherine since she underwent surgery was released - but multiple news agencies have refused to publish it, over fears that it has been "manipulated".
The Princess of Wales has maintained a low profile since undergoing the planned procedure earlier this year, canceling numerous engagements as she focused on her recovery.
While a candid photo of her surfaced last week, showing her seated in a car driven by her mother, Carole Middleton, this new image marks her first public appearance since the surgery.
Captured by her husband, Prince William, the photograph shows Princess Catherine seated in a garden chair, as she poses alongside her three children. The image was then shared on the official Kensington Royal X and Instagram accounts on behalf of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Prince George stands behind her, while Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis stand at her sides, all with big smiles.
Accompanying the image, a message from the royal couple expresses gratitude for the outpouring of support received during the Princess's recovery: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day."
The image was simply dated "2024" in the post's caption.
However, the photo's authenticity has been called into question by multiple international picture agencies. Chris Ship, ITV's Royal editor, revealed that at least three major agencies have refused to distribute the image.
Associated Press went as far as to report that the image had been manipulated by the palace.
Reuters then confirmed that they were also deleting the photo following a "post-publication review".
The controversy didn't stop there. Observant users on social media platforms raised concerns about apparent discrepancies in the photo. Some pointed out anomalies in Prince Louis' hand, particularly his missing finger, while others questioned the clarity of certain details in the image.
Speculations ran wild as individuals analyzed the photo, with some suggesting potential inconsistencies such as Princess Charlotte's cardigan and the absence of Princess Catherine's ring.
Kensington Palace has declined to comment on accusations that the image was edited, per BBC News.
Following her hospitalization in January, the Palace refrained from divulging specifics about the Princess's surgery but reassured the public that it was unrelated to cancer.
Initially expected to resume public engagements after Easter, recent developments have led to uncertainty regarding her upcoming appearances.
Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, suggests that Princess Catherine is eager to return to her duties, with plans potentially set in motion for post-Easter engagements.
After spending 13 days at the London Clinic, the Princess returned to Adelaide Cottage in Windsor to continue her recovery alongside Prince William and their children.
In late February, a representative for the Princess had to make a statement after rumors of the Princess's whereabouts circulated on social media.
"Kensington Palace clarified in January the expected recovery period for the princess and stated that we would only share important updates," her representative informed Page Six. "We continue to follow that directive."
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