A leading royal commentator has called on the Prince and Princess of Wales to allow their eldest son, Prince George, to cultivate a more visible public role as he approaches his teenage years. The expert argues that the future monarch, now 12, should not be "kept under lock and key" and needs to build a connection with the British public from a young age.
The Case for a Careful Introduction
Prince George, second in line to the throne, has been deliberately shielded from intense media scrutiny throughout his childhood. His appearances have been largely confined to major annual royal events such as Trooping the Colour, the Easter Sunday service, and the Christmas Day walkabout at Sandringham. This cautious approach reflects his parents' long-stated desire to give their children as normal an upbringing as possible.
However, royal expert Katie Nicholl contends that a balance must be struck. She emphasises that while Prince William is understandably wary of replicating the overwhelming exposure he and Prince Harry experienced, it is crucial for the public to form an attachment to George during his youth. "William has the sense to know that the public needs to fall in love with George as a youngster," Nicholl stated. "He has to have a presence, and he can't be kept under lock and key and only introduced when he's 18."
Signs of a 'Royal in Training'
Recent events suggest a subtle shift may already be underway. In a notable move, Prince George accompanied his mother, Princess Kate, to the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall in November 2025, stepping in when Prince William was unavailable. This engagement, honouring the war dead, was seen as a significant and appropriate step in his gradual introduction to royal duties.
Commenting on this appearance, royal commentator Richard Eden told the Daily Mail, "What we are seeing now is a new royal in training, Prince George." He praised Catherine's guidance, noting she was "gently leading the way" and demonstrating how George could handle future public engagements. Eden also recalled George's poised interaction with veterans at a Buckingham Palace tea party earlier in the year, highlighting the young prince's genuine interest.
Preparing for a Future Role
The consensus among observers is that William and Kate are meticulously preparing their son for the immense responsibilities that await him. The process is described as a careful, phased introduction rather than a sudden thrust into the spotlight. Katie Nicholl reinforced this, saying, "The aides I've spoken to and those who know him best say he is absolutely prepared."
She added a poignant note from George's perspective, acknowledging, "Of course, it's not a moment he wants to think about. He loves his father and wants him to be around for a long time, but when the time comes, he will be ready." As Prince George enters adolescence, the public can likely expect to see him at a growing number of suitable royal events, marking the beginning of his journey towards kingship.
