Prince William and Prince George share a “mutual devotion” that will prove “pivotal” for the monarchy’s future, according to royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams. The two future Kings were seen in a “charming” father-son moment as they watched Aston Villa play Barcelona at Camp Nou Stadium in Barcelona, Spain, on November 3.
Prince William wore a black puffer jacket and black cap, while his 13-year-old son wore an Adidas Aston Villa jacket and shorts. Prince George, despite being aware that his every move is photographed, was comfortable enough to candidly lean on his father’s shoulder as they watched the match. Fitzwilliams described the image as a “simple, sweet moment”.
Expert highlights pivotal relationship
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Fitzwilliams said: “Their mutual devotion is clear. What is delightful is that although he knows that every move is photographed, he was relaxed about it, which made this moment so natural.”
He added: “Their relationship is pivotal as, with only two working royals under 60, they, as future Kings, are the monarchy's future.” The expert also noted that “George will benefit immeasurably by the close and loving relationship his parents have with each other.”
Fitzwilliams explained that George will find “a support in every way” in his father as the 13-year-old heads towards kingship. William’s close relationship with his teenage son contrasts with his own bond with King Charles during childhood.
Contrast with William's childhood
While William and Charles share a close attachment in adulthood, the breakdown in Charles’ relationship with Diana and the Princess’ subsequent premature death presented hurdles William had to overcome when he was young. Fitzwilliams said: “Diana's appearance on Panorama hurt [William] deeply, he was at Eton when it was broadcast.”
Diana’s parenting style differed significantly from Charles’ more traditional approach. Diana wished for her sons to experience aspects of normal childhoods, such as going to McDonald’s, Thorpe Park or the cinema. William has previously revealed that he and Kate have taken the same approach with their three children – George, 13, Charlotte, 11, and Louis, eight. His recent outing with George at the Villa game is the latest example of that.
Speaking on The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy in October last year, William said: “For me the most important thing in my life is family and everything is about the future. [...] If you don’t start the children off now with a happy, healthy, stable home, I feel you’re setting them up for a bit of a hard time and a fall.”
