Prince William has offered uncommon personal reflections about his evolving bond with his late grandparents during a recent television appearance.
Speaking to Eugene Levy on Apple TV’s The Reluctant Traveler, the 43-year-old heir apparent discussed the transformation of what began as a rather stiff relationship with the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
The future monarch acknowledged that connecting with his grandparents proved challenging during his youth due to generational differences and royal protocol.
However, he revealed that their bond deepened significantly as time progressed, particularly when both reached advanced age and adopted a more relaxed approach to family interactions.
Prince William reveals how his relationship with Queen and Prince Philip changed over time
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When questioned about his closeness to his grandparents, William confirmed he maintained a positive relationship with them.
“My grandparents were of a different generation. I think when we were younger, it was harder to have that very close relationship because it was quite formal, but as they got older and I got older, it got warmer and warmer,” he explained.
The Prince pinpointed a specific period when the dynamic shifted noticeably.
“I definitely think my relationship was best with my grandparents when they were more in their, sort of 80s — when they’d sort of, relaxed a little bit,” he revealed.
Throughout his life, William shared numerous public and private moments with his grandparents, from ceremonial appearances on the palace balcony during Trooping the Colour to family gatherings at their Scottish estate.
His wife, Princess Kate, and their children—George, Charlotte and Louis—later joined these occasions, with the young royals developing their own special relationships with those they affectionately called “Gan-Gan” and “Great-Grandpa”.
During the programme, William also addressed his feelings about his future role as sovereign.
He admitted that whilst the prospect felt daunting in his youth, maturity has brought greater confidence in handling royal responsibilities, even when unexpected challenges arise.
Prince Philip photographed with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Edward in 2014
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PAPrincess Beatrice and Prince Philip pictured in 2012
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Following the former Duke of Edinburgh’s passing at age 99, William honoured his grandfather as “an extraordinary man” whose “humour and charm could light up any room”.
He praised Philip’s enduring influence and understated fortitude throughout his long life of service.
When the Queen died 12 months later, the Prince described her as “an extraordinary leader” and “a guiding light” for their family.
In his statement, he pledged to honour her memory through unwavering support for his father, the King.
These intimate revelations about the late royals provide unusual insight into the personal dynamics within Britain’s most prominent family.