Prince Harry made a rare solo public appearance in Los Angeles, attending the launch of his friend José Andrés’ new cookbook, Spain My Way, without Meghan Markle. The event took place at San Laurel, Andrés’ restaurant at the Conrad Los Angeles, where Harry was photographed smiling with the chef and other guests. He wore a navy blazer, shirt and jeans for the occasion. The gathering also drew other well-known attendees, including Gustavo Dudamel, Maria Shriver, Kyra Sedgwick, Tyler James Williams, Wolfgang Puck and Roy Choi.
The outing came just days before the couple’s daughter, Princess Lilibet, turned 5 on Thursday, June 4, 2026. Meghan marked the birthday on Instagram with photos of Harry holding Lilibet and another image of the child looking at flowers, with her face turned away from the camera. She captioned the post, “Our dream girl. Happy 5th birthday, Lili,” followed by a white heart emoji. Meghan has often shared family moments online while keeping her children’s faces hidden, blurred or turned away.
That approach has drawn criticism from some social media users, who argue it conflicts with her public advocacy for children’s online safety. Meghan’s team has rejected that claim, saying there is a clear difference between sharing family life and exposing children to public scrutiny. A spokesperson said obscuring the children’s faces is consistent with her message about privacy, agency and protection in a digital world, and reflects her view that parents can share moments while still safeguarding identities and digital footprints.
The couple also continues to face speculation about their finances and long-term business prospects. Their Spotify partnership ended, and their Netflix deal has shifted from the original arrangement, while Meghan’s lifestyle brand has also faced scrutiny over its performance. Commentator Maureen Callahan recently suggested the Sussexes may need to cut costs and could eventually downsize from their Montecito home, citing reports that they are struggling to monetize their public profile in the absence of royal-family-related content.
Harry’s appearance, Meghan’s birthday post and the renewed debate around the Sussexes’ public image and finances have kept the couple in the spotlight as they balance family milestones, media attention and ongoing scrutiny over their post-royal lives.
