Prince Harry ‘could never have envisaged his life as it is now’ when he turned 30

When Prince Harry celebrates his 40th birthday this weekend, it will be a stark contrast to when he turned 30.

In the past decade, not only has he quit life in the UK for a new start in California, he’s also become a husband to Meghan Markle and a father to Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. And while they will be there to mark his special day with him, it is likely two other relatives will not.

Despite being at his side on turning 30, his estranged father King Charles and older brother Prince William will probably not see him on his big day. Royal biographer and editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine Ingrid Seward told the Mirror: “Harry would never have envisaged himself living in California 10 years ago. He was still dedicated to the military although his active career was ending.

“He founded the Invictus Games and the first tournament took place to huge fanfare in London in September 2014 around the time of his 30th birthday. King Charles will celebrate his son’s 40th from a distance. Milestone birthdays are important to the royals. Whatever upsets Harry has caused will be forgotten for the day.

“Harry celebrated his 30th with his mates at a grand dinner in Clarence House. His 40th will be in the sunshine of Montecito with a wife and two kids. He says he is happier now. We hope he is.” It comes as Harry has insisted he is ‘excited’ about turning 40 as he prepares to celebrate this birthday with friends. In a statement issued to the BBC, he said: “I was anxious about 30, I’m excited about 40. Whatever the age, my mission is to continue showing up and doing good in the world.

“Becoming a father of two incredibly kind and funny kids has given me a fresh perspective on life, as well as sharpening my focus in all my work. Being a dad is one of life’s greatest joys and has only made me more driven and more committed to making this world a better place.”