Prince William has shared a rare and intimate reflection on his evolving relationship with his grandparents, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, in a recent appearance on The Reluctant Traveler on Apple TV. The Prince of Wales, 43, spoke candidly about how his bond with the late monarch and her husband deepened over time, particularly as they all grew older.
“When we were younger, it was harder to have that very close relationship because it was quite formal,” William explained. He acknowledged that the dynamic between them shifted as both he and his grandparents aged. “But as they got older and I got older, it got warmer and warmer,” he added. The Prince also noted that his relationship with his grandparents was at its best when they were in their 80s, a time when they had “relaxed a little bit.”
This heartfelt insight offers a rare glimpse into William’s personal memories of his grandparents, both of whom were pillars of the royal family for decades. Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, who were married for 73 years, passed away in 2022 and 2021, respectively, marking the end of an era for the British monarchy.
Growing up as a prince, William experienced the formality of royal life firsthand, but he has since reflected on how his perspective has evolved with age. “When I was younger, yeah, there are bits that overwhelm you,” he said, referring to his future role as monarch. “But with time and age, I think you feel a bit more settled in that side of things.”
William’s bond with his grandparents was evident during key family moments and royal events, such as Trooping the Colour appearances on the Buckingham Palace balcony and private holidays in Scotland at Balmoral. Over the years, the royal family grew closer, with Kate Middleton and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—often joining the family at these cherished gatherings.
After the passing of Prince Philip at 99, William paid tribute to his grandfather, describing him as “an extraordinary man” whose “humor and charm could light up any room.” Following Queen Elizabeth’s death the following year, he honored her legacy as “an extraordinary leader” and “a guiding light” for the family, pledging to support his father, King Charles, in every way possible.
Prince William’s heartfelt words reflect the deep love and respect he had for his grandparents, offering a glimpse into the quieter, more personal side of royal life.
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