Prince George has now entered his teenage years as he celebrated his 13th birthday in two distinct ways. To commemorate the occasion, a new official portrait of the young Prince was released by his parents, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, showing him in a suit after Trooping the Colour last month.
Shortly after, Prince William and Kate shared a behind-the-scenes video showcasing a more relaxed side of their eldest son, George, as he enjoyed his holiday, playing cricket on the beach and spending time with the family dog.
Both the portrait and the video were shared on social media with affectionate messages, notably referring to George without his royal title. This departure from traditional protocol reflects Prince William’s desire for a more modern and approachable monarchy, as explained by royal expert Jennie Bond.
This year’s birthday photo of George represents a departure from previous years, with the young Prince portrayed in a more formal setting. Bond suggests that this change may be a deliberate move by William and Kate to protect their children while preparing George for his future role as a King.
As George turns 13, he is set to follow in his father’s footsteps by starting at Eton College in September. Despite his growing public appearances alongside his parents, the Duke and Duchess remain committed to providing their children with a normal upbringing.
Looking ahead, the tradition of releasing birthday photos of George is likely to continue, providing glimpses into his life while safeguarding his privacy. Bond believes that these photos play a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of George as he transitions from childhood to adolescence.