Queen Elizabeth Spent Her 95th Birthday 'With Her Corgis' As She's 'Grieving The Loss Of Her Husband,' Insider Dishes
April 21 2021, Published 1:35 p.m. ET
Unfortunately, Queen Elizabeth wasn't able to truly celebrate her 95th birthday this year, as she was still mourning the death of her husband, Prince Philip, who passed away on April 9.
“The Queen had a somber birthday this year,” a source told Us Weekly. “She’s grieving the loss of her beloved husband, Prince Philip, and spent the day with her corgis. She spoke to family members who are rallying together to keep her company.”
“Prince Philip’s passing has hit the queen harder than expected, but she’s remaining calm and collected,” the insider added. “She’s strong and I’m sure she’ll pull through.”
Unfortunately, this year's festivities haven't panned out — the Trooping of the Colour parade was canceled, and no new portrait of the Queen was released to the public.
Instead, the Queen spoke out for the first time since Philip's passing and posted a message on social media on April 21.
“I have, on the occasion of my 95th birthday today, received many messages of good wishes, which I very much appreciate. While as a family we are in a period of great sadness, it has been a comfort to us all to see and to hear the tributes paid to my husband, from those within the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and around the world,” the statement began.
“My family and I would like to thank you for all the support and kindness shown to us in recent days. We have been deeply touched, and continue to be reminded that Philip had such an extraordinary impact on countless people throughout his life.”
Meanwhile, Prince Harry didn't stick around for his grandmother's birthday since he wanted to get back to his wife, Meghan Markle, who is pregnant with baby No. 2. However, he made sure to do something special for her in honor of her big day.
“Prince Harry got to say goodbye to the queen before her birthday and he left her a gift and card from him and Meghan,” the source noted.