Prince William has earned widespread admiration for his leadership and resilience as he guided the Royal Family through a challenging year marked by King Charles and Kate Middleton’s cancer battles.
Historian and royal expert Tessa Dunlop praised the Prince of Wales in the independentdescribing him as the “rock” of the Royal Family. Dunlop highlighted William’s steadfastness and ability to face difficult times with grace and dignity, solidifying his role as future king.
“Detractors who doubted William’s mettle have been forced to reconsider. “The Prince of Wales is the new rock of royalty,” Dunlop wrote. Drawing comparisons to his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, Dunlop described William as a “firm anchor” who adapted to challenges, even growing up with “designer traces” during Kate Middleton’s absence due to her treatment.
Dunlop noted that William’s heartfelt recognition of 2024 as “the most difficult year of his life” endeared him even more to the public. “The nation fell in love all over again with Diana’s firstborn. “We had forgotten how tall he is and how comfortable he is in his own skin.” she wrote.
The historian also praised William’s composure during high-profile appearances, including a recent meeting in Paris. “So comfortable that not even Trump would dare manhandle the future king on his trip to Paris,” Dunlop commented, adding: “(Macron who? The French president was the little one.)”
Dunlop emphasized how the challenges of 2024 have elevated the Prince and Princess of Wales as the monarchy’s most prominent figures. “Without a doubt, the rebirth of the Welsh as the country’s number one couple has taken our monarchy into a new space. Nowadays they seem to be a double act, even when they are apart,” he wrote.
Prince William’s ability to shoulder the burdens of family while maintaining public trust has further cemented his image as a capable and compassionate leader. As the Royal Family goes through a period of transition, William’s continued presence and growing prominence signals a new chapter for the monarchy.