![Prince Harry](https://hollywoodlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/prince-harry-now-and-then-ap-images-ftr-1.jpg?quality=100&w=384&h=216&crop=1)
Happy Birthday, Prince Harry! Today, September 15, the young royal turns 36 years old and we cannot believe how much time has passed since Harry made his debut on the steps of St. Mary’s Hospital, cradled so tenderly by his loving mom, Princess Diana. Over the years, Harry has completely matured, becoming such an inspiration to many young people, and an incredible influence in the world of philanthropy and on the royal family.
To mark this special occasion, we’re taking a look back at Prince Harry through the years. The world came to know Harry first as the second son of Princess Diana and Prince Charles. Harry was so incredibly close to Diana, which made her loss on August 31, 1997 absolutely earth-shattering for the then-12-year-old prince. Diana’s many admirers remembered her fondly for how she tried to give her sons as normal a life as possible — going to theme parks, and regularly showing her boys affection in front of the cameras.
![Prince Harry, Princess Diana](https://hollywoodlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/prince-harry-now-and-then-ap-images-embed.jpg)
The young royal went on to found the Invictus Games, a Paralympic-style sporting event for injured servicemen and women. Harry’s love of philanthropy extended to Africa and even at home in the United Kingdom, where he used his platform to discuss mental health struggles — especially those he suppressed following the death of his mother. As a full-grown young man, Harry took a huge step by introducing the love of his life to the world.
![Prince Harry, Meghan Markle](https://hollywoodlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/prince-harry-now-and-then-ap-images-embed2.jpg)
Although their life seemed idyllic, the strain and cruelty of gossip media forced Harry to make a brave decision for himself and his family. In January 2020, he and Meghan chose to step down as senior members of the royal family. But over the course of the last few months, the couple’s devoted admirers have seen for themselves how happy the two are in Los Angeles. This is such an exciting new chapter for Harry as a father, husband, and royal who has redefined the monarchy. We cannot wait to see what this year brings for him!