Princess Kate was captured on video staring down anti-monarchists as they loudly booed the royal family during the Trooping the Colour parade. The clip, shared on social media, shows the Princess of Wales giving a stern look to members of the pressure group Republic, who had gathered on The Mall with yellow signs demanding the abolition of the monarchy.
Protests Disrupt Royal Celebrations
The historic event did not pass without incident. Protesters saved some of their loudest demonstrations for King Charles and Queen Camilla, who led the carriage procession to Horse Guards Parade. Princess Kate and her three children followed closely behind, while Prince William, Prince Edward, and Princess Anne participated on horseback, as per tradition.
Kate appeared unimpressed by the jeers, which included chants of 'Not My King' and anti-royal songs. Protesters also opened umbrellas spelling out 'Stop The Reign'. She briefly stared at the campaigners, who had waited since early morning for a prime position, before turning to smile and speak with her children.
Royal Family's Response to Protests
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond commented that while the protests are distracting, the royal family has little choice but to carry on. She told the Mirror: 'There's no denying that the Republican movement is making more of a splash – and more of a noise – these days. It's obviously an embarrassment for the Royal Family and, for the first time, I think the movement is beginning to do some damage to the monarchy's popularity. But the royals really have no choice but to ignore the shouting and carry on.'
Bond added that the royals are accustomed to protesters and have learned to focus on supportive fans. 'So I think they're quite right simply to carry on with their engagements, interact with the many people who are only too delighted to see them and try to blank out the sound of the protesters.'
Social Media Highlights
After the event, the Prince and Princess of Wales shared photos and videos on their Kensington Royal Instagram account. The caption read: 'A great day at Trooping the Colour for His Majesty's Birthday Parade. From the Grenedier Guards trooping their colour to seeing so many faces on the Mall, thank you for making it a day to remember.'
Meanwhile, Prince Harry, who was not in London, shared a message about the Invictus Games during the ceremony. He said: 'Thank you for your service. Have a fantastic time in Dusseldorf - lean on those when you need to and celebrate everything you have achieved, and most importantly, have fun.'
