Mike Tindall, the former England rugby player married to Zara Tindall, has become a significant figure within the Royal Family, drawing in new supporters and helping to modernise its public image, according to former royal butler Grant Harrold.
Speaking on behalf of Heart Bingo Online, Harrold said Tindall has "done some extraordinary things" during his time in the family, as reported by Marie Claire.
Grounds for popularity
Harrold praised Tindall's grounded nature and his relationships within the family. "Mike is very grounded. That's what I like about him," Harrold said. "He's got a great relationship with everyone, obviously Princess Anne and the King. He's just Mike. I think they like the fact that he's a bit different."
Tindall, who married Zara in 2011, has also appeared on reality shows, which Harrold said has helped promote the Royal Family to a younger audience. "He also brings a whole new fan base to the Royal Family," Harrold added, calling him "a huge asset" to the Crown.
Rugby career and family life
Tindall is a former English rugby union player who won 75 caps for England between 2000 and 2011 and was part of the squad that won the 2003 World Cup. He became the son-in-law of Princess Anne upon marrying Zara, and the couple have three children: Mia, Lena and Lucas.
Mike and Zara marked their 15th wedding anniversary earlier this year. In June, royal commentator Jennie Bond suggested the pair "have everything going for them," noting their down-to-earth manner and fun-loving outlook. "I think Mike and Zara have everything going for them; they are clearly still madly in love, they don't take themselves or life too seriously, and they know how to have a whole load of fun," Bond said at the time.
