Duke and Duchess of Sussex are cover stars of Time’s most influential list

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are the cover stars of Time magazine’s list of the most influential people in the world, with the accolade revealed on the duke’s 37th birthday.

The US publication released a glossy image of Harry and Meghan, taken at their Montecito home in California.

Jose Andres, a friend and chef who runs the charity World Central Kitchen, writes that the couple are “driven” and “compassionate”, and give a “voice to the voiceless”.

“Springing into action is not the easy choice for a young duke and duchess who have been blessed through birth and talent, and burned by fame. It would be much safer to enjoy their good fortune and stay silent,” Andres writes. He adds: “They run towards the struggle.”

Writing that they were “humbled” to be part of Time’s annual top 100 list on their Archewell foundation website, the couple also contributed to the list, honouring the economist Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first African and first woman to lead the World Trade Organization. “What will it take to vaccinate the world? Unity, cooperation – and leaders like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala,” they wrote.

Meanwhile members of the royal family wished Harry a happy 37th birthday, posting pictures on their social media accounts.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s official Twitter account posted a picture of him along with the words “Happy Birthday Prince Harry!”

A similar message on the Queen’s

Twitter account featured four pictures of Harry, including one of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex together.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall posted three images on their official social media account, including two of Harry with his father. The message said: “Wishing The Duke of Sussex a very Happy Birthday today!” and included a birthday cake emoji.