Prince Harry Shares 'Ginger Gene' Surprise About His Kids
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle going to church at Sandringham on Christmas Day 2017. Photo courtesy of Mark Jones under CC BY 2.0.
Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet just turned heads with a stunning new photo that captures more than just a family moment. The two royals, side by side at Disneyland, flaunted their strikingly similar red hair — a vivid reminder of the Spencer family legacy passed down from their late grandmother, Princess Diana. This image, shared by fan accounts on social media and featured during Disneyland's 70th anniversary special, not only highlights their undeniable resemblance but also brings a wave of nostalgia and warmth as Prince Harry reflects on his own magical childhood Disney trip with Diana, now coming full circle with his own children in tow.
A Royal Resemblance That Captivates
The photo, included in "The Happiest Story on Earth: 70 Years of Disneyland — A Special Edition of 20/20," shows Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4, standing close together, their matching red hair catching the eye even though their faces remain unseen. Fans and royal watchers alike were quick to notice the unmistakable Spencer gene shining through, a genetic gift from Princess Diana's side of the family. Harry himself has acknowledged the strength of this "ginger gene," as reported by PEOPLE, once admitting that he thought his children's hair color would be dominated by Meghan Markle's genes, only to be proven wrong by the vivid red locks of Archie and Lilibet.
This shared trait is more than just a physical feature. It's a living connection to Diana's legacy, a reminder of the beloved princess whose spirit continues to influence her grandchildren's lives. The image of the two children admiring Lilibet's birthday cake, reportedly themed after "The Little Mermaid," adds a layer of enchantment to the moment, blending royal heritage with the timeless magic of childhood wonder.
Disney Magic: From One Generation to the Next
Harry's reflections on his own childhood Disney experience add emotional depth to this story. In the same special, he recounted a memorable trip to Disney World in 1993 with Princess Diana and his brother, Prince William. At just 8 years old, Harry vividly remembers the joy and excitement of meeting beloved characters and riding his favorite attractions. The memory of "losing it" with the Disney characters captures the pure, unfiltered delight of a child immersed in a world of fantasy and fun, as reported by PEOPLE.
Fast forward to 2025, and Harry is now the father, sharing that same magic with Archie and Lilibet during a family trip to Disneyland to celebrate Lilibet's fourth birthday. The children's excitement was palpable even before entering the park, with Harry describing their awe and anticipation as they approached the gates. "To see the kids throw themselves into these experiences when they have no idea what they're walking into — it was amazing. And it brings out the kid in you again," Harry said, as reported by PEOPLE.
Meghan Markle, a Southern California girl, shared her own fondness for Disneyland, calling it "more accessible" for her but still "the biggest treat in the world," according to PEOPLE. The couple's shared love for Disney, combined with their desire to create joyful memories for their children, made the trip a perfect celebration of family and legacy.
A Celebration Fit for a Princess
Lilibet's birthday festivities were nothing short of magical. The family enjoyed rides, treats, and a whimsical two-tier cake adorned with blue fondant to represent water and topped with Ariel from "The Little Mermaid." The choice of theme was a nod to the enchanting world that Disney has created, a world that has clearly captured the hearts of this young royal family.
The special also revealed candid moments of the family enjoying the park, including a thrilling ride on Space Mountain, reportedly a favorite of Harry's since his childhood. The image of Harry, Meghan, Archie, and Lilibet yelling with delight on the ride perfectly encapsulates the joy and togetherness of the day.
The Power of Legacy and Family
This Disneyland trip is more than just a birthday celebration. It's a powerful symbol of continuity, love, and the enduring influence of Princess Diana. The matching red hair of Archie and Lilibet is a visual testament to the family's roots, while the shared Disney experience connects generations through joy and wonder.
For Harry, bringing his children to the place that once brought him so much happiness with his mother is a deeply personal act. It's a way to honor Diana's memory while creating new stories and traditions for his own family. The magic of Disney, combined with the royal heritage, creates a narrative that is both timeless and deeply moving.
References: Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet Bare Striking Resemblance in New Photo | Prince Harry Recalls Excitement of Disney Trip with Diana and Bringing His Kids
