Happy birthday, little princess!Lilibet Diana turns five! This is what we know about Meghan and Harry's daughter

Lilibet Diana – a name with great meaning

As Lilibet Diana was born in California on June 4, 2021, her name made headlines around the world. “Lilibet” was the affectionate nickname of Queen Elizabeth (†2022), which only close family members used. Honored with her middle name “Diana”. Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan also the prince's deceased mother, Princess Diana (†1997). In private circles, Lilibet is usually addressed by her nickname “Lili”.

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Meghan and Harry's daughter was born far away from the British monarchy in the USA – a symbolic new beginning for her parents, who retired from their royal duties in 2020. But: little Lili spent her first birthday in England to celebrate her 70th anniversary on the throne with Queen Elizabeth, who was still alive at the time. There was a small party in the back yard of Frogmore Cottage.

Resemblance to dad Harry and grandma Diana

Royal fans immediately noticed a special feature in the few photos published: Lilibet inherited her father's striking reddish-blond hair.

Prince Harry revealed several times with visible pride, that his children had inherited their grandmother Diana's famous Spencer genes. The similarities are particularly clear with Lilibet; she also received his mother's blue eyes.

Princess – but different

Since the death of Queen Elizabeth in September 2022 and the accession of her grandfather, King Charles (77), Lilibet officially has the title of princess. She is therefore Princess Lilibet of Sussex.

She is currently behind her brother, who is two years older, in the line of succession to the British throne Archie (7) and several cousins ​​in seventh place. Although she officially belongs to the royal family, she leads a life away from the palace. Public appointments, royal engagements or official appearances have not yet been part of her everyday life.

At home in Montecito

Lilibet lives in Montecito, California, with her parents and brother Archie. The exclusive coastal region around Santa Barbara is considered a retreat for numerous celebrities.

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Harry and Meghan attach great importance to giving their children as normal a childhood as possible. Instead of royal etiquette, the focus is on nature, creativity and family time. The Sussexes repeatedly report going on trips together, working in the garden or taking walks with the family dogs.

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Which school does Lilibet attend?

Like many children her age, Lilibet now attends a preschool or early school program in California. Harry and Meghan are said to place great value on modern education, diversity and creative support.

Insiders have been reporting for years that the children are growing up in an environment that promotes independence, social commitment and environmental awareness – values ​​that are particularly important to both parents.

These are Lilibet's hobbies

Even though Harry and Meghan rarely provide insight into their daughter's private life, they have given some hints about Lilibet's interests in interviews and documentaries. The little princess especially seems to be fascinated by animals. She regularly comes into contact with dogs, chickens and other animals on the extensive family property.

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She should also spend a lot of time outdoors. Gardening, playing in nature and being creative seem to be some of her favorite activities. Lilibet apparently inherited her love of books from her mother Meghan. Reading aloud and reading together should have a permanent place in everyday family life. “She is more amazing than we could have ever imagined,” said her parents shortly after birth about their little girl, whose character they then described as “balanced, relaxed and pretty chilled” described.

Close bond with brother Archie

Who is particularly important to Lilibet? Especially her big brother Archie. The two siblings are only two years apart and grow up very close together.

Harry and Meghan repeatedly emphasize how important family solidarity is to them. Many observers assume that Archie and Lilibet experienced a comparatively down-to-earth childhood despite their unusual origins.

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Will Lilibet Diana take on royal duties one day? This question concerns nobility experts worldwide. One thing is particularly evident on the fifth birthday: Meghan and Harry's daughter is growing up differently than any generation of royals before her. Between Californian freedom and royal heritage, she develops her own personality – far away from palace walls and flashbulbs.

There is currently little to suggest that Lili will later take an active role within the monarchy. Since she lives in the USA and her parents are no longer official members of the working royal family, her future life is likely to be much more independent than that of her British cousins. Nevertheless, Lili remains a part of the history of the House of Windsor – as the granddaughter of a king, the daughter of a prince and as a girl growing up between two worlds.

Nobody can say today what Lili's path will look like. However, one thing is certain: The world will continue to watch with curiosity how the little Princess of Sussex develops.

Sources used: The Guardian, Washington Post, People, Instyle