Queen Camilla welcomed 'Harry Potter' author J.K. Rowling to Holyrood House in Scotland on June 30, with a photo of the occasion being posted to the official royal family's account on X (formerly Twitter). The post has since come under scrutiny by many who think it was in bad taste to end Pride Month with an invitation to Rowling, who has been known to hold anti-trans views.
The post, originally intended to support Camilla's childhood reading initiatives, stated they discussed "the importance of ensuring that young people have access to books and the vital part reading plays in opening doors for future generations." But this objective ended up being completely overshadowed in the comments in light of Rowling's transphobic history.
It is not the first time the royal family has faced backlash for making less fortunate decisions in the public eye. While some were unintentional, the truth is many princes and princesses, and even kings and queens, have indeed rebelled against their duties or abused their powers.
Let’s take a look at a few royals around the world who broke the mystique and showed that they’re just as flawed as anyone else—if not more so! Click through the gallery to get started.