Crown's New 'Steadfast Anchor': Prince William Called 'Reincarnation' of Queen Elizabeth and 'New Rock' for Royal Family After Painful Year
Prince William, heir to the British throne, has been hailed as the "new rock" of the British royal family, with royal biographer Dr. Tessa Dunlop describing him as a "reincarnation of his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth."
Throughout 2024, the Prince of Wales demonstrated steadfast leadership amid significant challenges, including cancer diagnoses within the family and other personal trials. His unwavering support for his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, during her health battle, and his commitment to his royal duties have reinforced his role as a central figure in the monarchy.
The future king's dedication to meaningful initiatives, such as the Earthshot Prize, shows his focus on impactful work, sources say. His recent participation in the Earthshot Prize Awards in Cape Town last November "highlights his commitment to environmental causes and global collaboration," a royal insider shared.
In addition to his public endeavors, His Royal Highness has been a pillar of strength for his family, providing support during King Charles III's ongoing cancer treatment.
"His ability to balance personal challenges with public responsibilities reflects the resilience and duty exemplified by Queen Elizabeth during her reign," the insider explained.
Dunlop said the Prince of Wales was a "steadfast anchor who changed it up with designer stubble," in a quip referring to the next monarch's new preference for wearing facial hair, which has divided opinions in his fandom.
"The nation fell in love with [Princess] Diana’s firstborn all over again," she observed. "Naysayers who doubted William’s mettle have been forced to rethink."
"Without doubt, the rebirth of the Waleses as the country’s number one couple has moved our monarchy into a new space," the author wrote. "These days they appear to be a double act, even when apart."
During a press interview during his time in Cape Town last November, the blunt royal stated, "Do I like more responsibility? No. Do I like the freedom that I can build something like Earthshot? Then yes. And that’s the future for me."
"It’s very important, with my role and my platform, that I'm doing something for good." HRH said. "That I'm helping people's lives and I'm doing something that is genuinely meaningful. So, the Earthshot is a culmination, if you like, of all that put together."
Dunlop pointed out how "William insists he wants to provide compassionate leadership amid a dangerous new dawn of showy nationalism. To help him perform that onerous task, it is vital the King leans in."
The scribe concluded by sharing her thoughts on Charles III's current reign. "He may never be the star turn his late mother was, or that his son is fast becoming, but Charles could make a name for himself as a monarch who oversees much-needed root-and-branch reform."
People reported on Dunlop's remarks.