First Kate Middleton picture in 76 days withdrawn after alarming details spotted

Kensington Palace released the first photo of the Princess of Wales on Mother’s Day following her planned abdominal surgery in January – but some are saying it’s been photoshopped

The first image of Kate Middleton after her planned abdominal surgery has been pulled by major news agencies following claims it has been manipulated.

The image, which was taken by Prince William, showed Kate sitting on a chair in the garden with her arms around the young royals – all of them beaming.

However, hours after the official image was released, picture agencies like Reuters, Getty Images, Associated Press and AFP quickly removed the photo after issuing a ‘kill notice,’ which also asked all clients to remove it from their platforms.

AP said: “At closer inspection it appears that the source has manipulated the image. Clients please be advised that the following story has been killed and should no longer be used.”

Kensington Palace did not give a response when asked if the image had been edited.

Some of the editing errors that have been identified include Kate’s missing wedding ring, her blurred hair and right hand, and her jacket zipper not lining up. Plus, Princess Charlotte’s wrist and sleeve of her jumper also not lining up, suggesting it may have been artificially manipulated.

Other notable alterations include the sudden stop of Charlotte’s hair on her right shoulder, the heel of her right boot and the corner of her skirt, just below her right elbow.

At a more in depth look, eagle eyed social media sleuths have suggested Kate’s neck and chin may have been Photoshopped, as well as Prince Louis’ trousers. As for Prince George, others think that his forearm looks too long.

In terms of the scenery, fans also pointed out that the orange colour of some of the leaves on the tree behind them means the photo isn’t recent, and was likely taken at an earlier time.

Kensington Palace explain why Kate wasn’t wearing her wedding ring in new photo

Despite the editing claims, when the official photo was released, plenty of royal fans took to social media to gush over the family shot and wish Kate – who thanked the public for their support and well wishes in the caption – a speedy recovery.

“Aww gorgeous photo! Great to see the Princess again with all the love and support of her family! Happy Mother’s Day” one person said, while another added: “Wishing you a continued peaceful recovery surrounded by those you love! Happy Mother’s Day!”

The Princess of Wales’ last public engagement was on Christmas Day 2023, when she attended the annual Sandringham church service with her family. When Kensington Palace announced Kate’s surgery, they also stated that she would not be returning to public duties until Easter.