Peter Phillips, the only son of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips, has spoken candidly about the pressures of growing up in the royal spotlight. In a rare interview, the 46-year-old reflected on his decision to step away from media attention and live a quieter life in Gloucestershire.
"It's not always easy being part of the royal family," Phillips admitted. "There's a constant scrutiny that comes with the territory, and I made a conscious choice to step back from that."
A Life Away from the Spotlight
Unlike his cousins Princes William and Harry, Phillips has largely avoided the media circus surrounding the royal family. He explained how his parents' divorce when he was young shaped his perspective on public life.
"Growing up, I saw both sides of royal life - the privileges and the pressures," he said. "My mother always encouraged us to find our own path."
The Decision to Step Back
Phillips, who works in sports management, revealed how he gradually withdrew from royal duties after completing his education. "I wanted to build a career on my own terms," he said. "The media attention can be overwhelming, and I valued my privacy."
The royal descendant, who has two daughters with his ex-wife Autumn Kelly, emphasized the importance of family life away from the cameras. "We're fortunate to live in a beautiful part of Gloucestershire where we can enjoy normal family moments," he added.
