"Saturday Night Live" recently took a humorous jab at Prince William and Kate Middleton's 2023 Christmas Card, particularly focusing on an apparent Photoshop error involving their youngest child, Prince Louis. The comedy show, known for its satirical take on current events, presented the royal family's holiday greeting during its "Weekend Update" segment, hosted by Colin Jost and Michael Che.
The Christmas Card, which was released on social media by the Prince and Princess of Wales, featured a black-and-white photograph of the couple with their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Observant royal enthusiasts quickly noticed an odd detail: Prince Louis appeared to be missing a finger in the photo. Seizing the moment, "SNL" host Jost quipped, "A Christmas photo released by the royal family features a bad Photoshop job where Prince Louis' finger appears to be missing."
Adding to the humor, Jost included a joke about Meghan Markle, saying, "And this is sweet. Meghan Markle said she has a finger they can use if they need it," accompanied by an edited image of the Duchess of Sussex with a blurred hand, suggesting a cheeky gesture.
British Prince William and Kate wanted American attention. America obliged via SNL. pic.twitter.com/oeeLz05EzC — Queens R. Made (@QueenRMade1) December 17, 2023
This segment sparked various reactions online, with some viewers finding the joke entertaining. One comment read, "That Meghan Markle joke was my Christmas present...Loved It!" Another viewer echoed, "The Meghan Markle joke was hilarious."
However, not everyone was convinced of the Photoshop blunder. Some defended the authenticity of the Christmas Card, explaining, "That's not a photoshop of Prince Louis' hand; the kid has his front two fingers folded under atop the arm of the chair, while his back two are splayed over its side." In support of this view, a royal source clarified that the portrait was indeed authentic, stating, "It's not photoshopped. It seems as if he just bent his finger over. He's certainly not lost a finger - don't worry about that!"
The photograph also drew attention to other details, such as the Princess of Wales seemingly missing a leg and the Prince of Wales' other leg not being visible. Some speculated about the positioning of their legs, while others focused on the casual and relatable atmosphere of the family portrait.
Despite the online buzz and "SNL's" playful take, Prince William and Kate Middleton have not publicly addressed the Photoshop claims. According to an unnamed insider, the couple was reportedly "embarrassed" by the mishap and "shocked" like everyone else upon noticing Prince Louis' seemingly missing finger.
The Christmas Card, despite the controversy, received praise for its simplicity and elegance. One admirer commented, "It's a beautiful, simple, and classy family photo that so many can relate to." Another praised the family's down-to-earth attire, appreciating "the denim and converse."
Josh Shinner, the photographer behind the portrait, reflected on the experience, noting it as "one of the most relaxed and enjoyable sittings" he's ever had. He shared that the children's jokes contributed to the comfortable ambiance, though he remained tight-lipped about specific details regarding the photograph's stylistic choices.
