Former royal butler Grant Harrold has offered insight into the evolving relationship between King Charles and Prince William, revealing that the two are 'really close' and mutually supportive. Speaking to Heart Bingo Online, Harrold, who served as butler to King Charles and Queen Camilla from 2004 to 2011, observed the dynamics during William's youth and noted how the monarch has quietly influenced his son.
Mutual Support and Guidance
Harrold stated that 'the King is great at giving William advice and guidance,' and that Prince William has 'always been very good at supporting his father, so they've got a wonderful relationship.' He added that Charles has long guided William in preparing for his future roles as Prince of Wales and eventually king. However, Harrold noted a shift: 'William is also offering a lot more of his views and his guidance to the King, and coming into his own with a new confidence.'
Relationship After Queen Elizabeth's Death
Reflecting on changes since Queen Elizabeth II's death in 2022, Harrold said, 'I don't think there is a huge difference in their relationship. Obviously, the King's got a lot more responsibilities, and he is a lot busier. They probably don't see each other as much as they used to, but that's all.'
Kate Middleton's Role
Harrold also commented on the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton, describing Kate as 'very good at grounding William, and she's very good at keeping him right and keeping him calm, which is what Queen Camilla's good at as well.' He called her the 'power behind the throne,' a 'very strong individual,' and a 'real support,' adding, 'She's not a royal, but she's become a typical royal wife, which is what you want.'
Former Royal Gardener's Perspective
Last week, former royal gardener Jack Stooks, who served the royals for two decades, weighed in on William's development. Stooks said that since marrying Kate in 2011, William has become 'a lot more serious,' inheriting more responsibilities as future king. 'He's trying to be seen as somebody that can be taken seriously,' Stooks said, noting that William's actions align with the King's roles, particularly in environment and wildlife. 'Following on from his father, he's going to do a great job going forward.' Stooks described William as 'cut from the same cloth' as Charles but added that 'Charles is such a workaholic,' while William appears 'slightly more family-oriented' and takes time for his personal life.
