Tensions have been palpable, especially regarding the public's enduring love for Diana and the somewhat ambiguous role Camilla plays in this narrative. To understand the dynamics at play, let’s travel back to June 21, 1982, the day Prince William was born. While members of the royal family celebrated the arrival of the now King Charles’s first child, Princess Anne is said to have taken the news less than well.
Having just returned from a visit to New Mexico, Anne was approached by reporters asking about William's birth. When informed that the late Princess Diana had given birth, she famously responded, “I didn’t know she had one.” The reporters then inquired if she thought too much fuss was being made over the new royal baby, to which she replied, “Yes.”
At that time, a palace insider explained that Anne was feeling the pressures of her own engagements, which had likely quadrupled due to the absence of her brother and sister-in-law. The insider shared, “She works very hard and sees her sister-in-law picking up the glory. She’s sick to her back teeth with it all.”
As Princess Anne dons her mother’s mantle, she embodies the spirit of a bygone era—a time when duty to crown and country was paramount. Her present demeanor, unassuming yet commanding, speaks volumes about the enduring power of tradition in an ever-changing world. Yet, amidst the pomp and pageantry, whispers of dissent linger. Some question her ability to fill the void left by her ailing relatives, doubting her capacity to shoulder the burdens of royalty.
As a father of three himself, Prince William shares a close bond with his aunt, who is the mother of Prince Phillips and Zara Tindall. On Mike Tindall’s podcast, William recounted stories of Anne chasing her nephews around Balmoral Castle, reflecting on the joyful moments spent at the Scottish estate. He noted that Princess Anne had a rather intimidating look on her face that could be quite terrifying!
Currently, Princess Anne is mentoring her grand-niece, Princess Charlotte, providing invaluable insights into her royal responsibilities. She has taken Charlotte under her wing, teaching her the ropes of royal life and preparing her for her future role. The hardest-working royal has even warned her about the challenges that come with being a princess, particularly those related to her uncle, Prince Harry.
According to palace insiders, Anne is inadvertently passing along juicy tidbits, including stories about Prince Harry’s controversial party attire and Princess Beatrice’s unique fascinator at her parents' wedding. Anne is particularly focused on fostering a strong bond between Charlotte and Prince George, hoping to instill a sense of camaraderie similar to that found in the relationship between Anne and Charles, rather than the rivalry that exists between Prince Harry and William.
The two young royals are reportedly in constant conversation about a variety of topics—women’s football, sailing, horses, ballet, and fashion. Essentially, Anne is ensuring that Charlotte is groomed to become the perfect princess and future queen.
While there are lighter elements to Charlotte’s royal training, Princess Anne’s guidance is also rigorous. The Wales family is thrilled about Anne passing down her wisdom to their daughter, as she epitomizes the role model they aspire for Charlotte to have. Known for her strong work ethic and unwavering support for the king, they believe there is no better mentor than Anne.
She maintains a flawless reputation while still having her opinions respected. Anne has been invaluable to the Princess of Wales during those early uncertain years, especially as a commoner herself. She desires for Charlotte to receive the same candid tough love that she herself once experienced.
