Princess Anne, who turns 76 today, is expected to spend her birthday away from royal duties, with family and friends. Known as one of the hardest-working royals, she has maintained a busy schedule of engagements both at home and abroad, even past the typical retirement age.
Former Butler's Prediction
Grant Harrold, a former royal butler who knew Anne privately, spoke exclusively to the Daily Express on behalf of OLBG. He said: “I don't think she will ever retire. I think it's highly unlikely that we'll ever see Princess Anne completely retire from public life.”
Harrold compared her potential path to that of the Duke of Kent, who remains active in his 90s. “Even though obviously he doesn't do as much as he once did, we still see him out and about occasionally, and he's still very much involved when he wants to be,” he added.
Gradual Step Back
Harrold suggested Anne might reduce her workload gradually rather than stop abruptly. “I think she'll continue working for as long as she feels able to, and then perhaps gradually take a step back rather than suddenly stop altogether,” he said.
He emphasized that Anne would likely always want a role: “I certainly don't see her retiring in the traditional sense. I think she'll always want to have a role and to keep contributing in some way.”
Anne's Own Words
The Princess Royal has previously dismissed the idea of retirement. When asked by PA, she said: “It isn't really an option. It really isn't written in, no. It isn't really an option, no, I don't think so.”
