It’s no secret that Prince William has big plans for the monarchy when he eventually takes the throne. In fact, he’s reportedly trying to get a head start before he’s even king!
The Prince of Wales, 43, is said to be determined to reshape, modernize, and slim down the institution. And that includes removing some royal titles – possibly even those of his own children, if reports are to be believed!
There’s also an ever-growing list of traditions and customs he apparently wants to ban once he becomes king, which makes royal fans wonder what the monarchy will look like in the next few decades! Keep reading for more info…
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Prince William Says 'Changes Need To Happen' In The Monarchy
An insider told RadarOnline that Prince William's "vision is a monarchy fit for the modern age – less pomp, fewer outdated titles, and a stronger emphasis on purpose." The insider praised his "pragmatic" outlook, and said: "He knows the monarchy can only endure if it evolves and stays meaningful to people's lives."
Prince William himself even touched on this in his recent interview with Eugene Levy. "I think it's safe to say that change is on my agenda. "Change for good, and I embrace that," the father-of-three confirmed to Levy.
"I don't fear it – that's the bit that excites me, the idea of being able to bring some change," he said. "Not overly radical, but changes that I think need to happen."
What Does Prince William Want To Ban When He Takes The Throne?
So what kind of changes is he talking about? According to RadarOnline, Prince William wants to scale back the "quirky customs" and over-the-top royal pageantry. That includes the extravagant regalia, which an insider told the outlet he finds "ridiculous."
"William can't stand the more theatrical side of royal tradition," the insider dished. "The plumes, the velvet, the heavy robes – he finds it all totally outdated and a bit camp," they went on, adding: "He'll keep the dignity of the role, but he wants to strip away the excess and make it feel less like costume drama."
He also wants to get rid of some of the most outdated roles, from the Keeper of the Swans to the Yeoman of the Glass Pantry. A palace insider reportedly claimed: "Some of these ceremonial positions haven't had a real purpose in centuries. William values history, but he's practical. He wants the royal household to operate smoothly – not to preserve traditions just for show."
Will Prince William Change The Current Rule About Heirs Traveling Together?
And that's not all, as there is also talk of him doing away with one very old – and very morbid – royal tradition involving his family; specifically, the heirs to the throne. At the moment, now that eldest son and second in line to the throne, Prince George, is 12 years old, he is no longer permitted to travel with his father or siblings in order to protect the line of succession.
Although nothing is confirmed, it's been rumored that Prince William could consider adding that rule to the list of things he wants to change when his time on the throne comes. Royal expert Jennie Bond told The Mirror: "It's going to be rather annoying for the family because they are such a tight little unit and obviously enjoy travelling together."
And although Prince William is keen to scrap a lot of traditions, Bond isn't sure if Prince William will change this ancient one, as there may be a lot of pushback! "I think there will be pressure on William to stick to this rule – at least most of the time," she said, adding: "It's all to do with protecting the succession to the throne."
How The Monarchy's Changing From Queen Elizabeth II To King Charles III To Prince William
Prince William's approach follows the generational shift already seen between King Charles III's and Queen Elizabeth II's reigns, with the change being especially noticeable in their coronations, for example.
King Charles' 2023 coronation ceremony was shorter, smaller, and more low-key. It lasted roughly two hours instead of three, and there were 2,000 guests invited instead of 8,000. There were even some recycled garments, showing just how much things had changed. And if insiders are to be believed, Prince William's will be an even bigger contrast!
