Standard disclaimer added to video shared by Kensington Palace, amidst digital alteration controversies
Getty Images, a renowned visual media agency, found itself at the centre of attention after adding an editor’s note to a video featuring the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, announcing her cancer diagnosis. This note, indicating that the footage “may not adhere to Getty Images’ editorial policy,” triggered a flurry of online speculation and theories, particularly in light of recent incidents involving digitally altered photos released by the royal family.
In response to the confusion and conspiracy theories circulating on social media platforms, Getty Images elucidated that the editor’s note is a routine precaution for content received from third-party organizations, such as Kensington Palace in this case. The agency aimed to clarify that this disclaimer is standard practice, intended to inform viewers about the source of the content without casting doubts on its authenticity.
The video in question, which reveals Kate’s battle with cancer and her decision to undergo preventative chemotherapy, was actually recorded by BBC Studios. This revelation came directly from Kensington Palace, which also confirmed the recording date as two days prior to the public release of the video. BBC Studios briefly stated their role in filming the message and extended well-wishes to the Princess for her recovery.
This announcement from Kate marked a profoundly personal moment, as she shared the details of her cancer diagnosis and the impact it has had on her and her family. Her candid disclosure about the diagnosis and subsequent treatment received a widespread outpouring of support from across the globe, including sentiments from US President Joe Biden and King Charles III, who is also undergoing cancer treatment.
Controversy had previously arisen around a Mother’s Day photo of Kate with her children, which was pulled back by international agencies after the palace acknowledged it had been digitally altered. The princess herself took responsibility for the editing, expressing her apologies for any confusion caused and noting her occasional experimentation with photo editing as an amateur photographer.
The situation highlights the delicate balance between public interest and the privacy of public figures, especially in the digital age where alterations and misinformation can quickly lead to confusion and speculation. Getty Images’ clarification serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by media agencies in maintaining editorial integrity while disseminating content from varied sources.
