Prince Harry speaking in Dusseldorf in 2023.invictus

It’s hard to believe that the cheeky young prince who once charmed the world as the playful second son of Charles and Diana is now a father, husband, and global figure in his own right. As Harry reaches this landmark birthday, it’s time to celebrate his extraordinary journey—from the royal family’s inner circle to forging his own path in the modern world.

Of course, there's been some drama in recent years as Harry took a step back from his royal duties with his bride, Meghan Markle, but it was good to see that Prince William and Kate Middleton wished the Duke happy birthday.

Born on September 15, 1984, Harry’s life has always been in the public eye, but it’s his unique personality that has endeared him to millions. Known for his down-to-earth nature, warmth, and wit, Harry has long been a beloved royal, particularly for his relatable and candid demeanor. He’s always been a prince who wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty—whether it was joining the army, trekking to the South Pole for charity, or speaking openly about mental health struggles.

One of the most defining chapters of Harry’s life is his military service. He served in the British Army for ten years, rising to the rank of Captain and undertaking two tours of duty in Afghanistan. His time in the military helped shape his views on duty, service, and leadership. In fact, it was this experience that inspired him to create the Invictus Games in 2014, a global sporting event for wounded servicemen and women, which remains one of his proudest accomplishments.

Another cornerstone of Harry’s legacy is his commitment to charity work. Alongside his wife, Meghan Markle, Harry has championed causes close to his heart, from mental health awareness to environmental conservation. His work with Sentebale, the charity he co-founded to support children in Southern Africa affected by HIV/AIDS, is a testament to his compassion and drive to make a meaningful impact.

In recent years, Harry has embraced life outside of traditional royal duties, embarking on new ventures with his family in the United States. Whether through his Archewell Foundation, producing documentaries, or his groundbreaking memoir "Spare," Harry continues to redefine what it means to be a modern royal.

As Prince Harry celebrates his 40th birthday, it’s clear he's a prince who is unafraid to chart his own course while staying true to his values. Happy Birthday, Harry! Here's to many more decades of making history.