Prince William opens up on family and loss; shares parenting insights

Prince William, 43, opened up about personal grief, family life, and the future of the British monarchy in a candid interview with Eugene Levy on Apple TV+’s The Reluctant Traveler. Speaking from Windsor Castle, he reflected on losing his grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis, and King Charles III’s health struggles. William shared insights into raising his children, coping with family losses, and maintaining balance amid royal duties. He emphasized his commitment to thoughtful, positive change in the monarchy while preserving tradition, offering a rare glimpse into the humor, warmth, and humanity of a future king.

Prince William gave an unusually candid interview in the latest episode of Apple TV+’s The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy, offering rare insights into his family life, personal grief, and his vision for the British monarchy. The Prince of Wales, 43, welcomed Canadian actor Eugene Levy to Windsor Castle, sharing reflections on everything from Kate Middleton’s health journey to the upbringing of their children, and even his own lighter side, including a teenage love for American Pie.

William reflected openly on the impact of losing his grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. “I do miss my grandmother and my grandfather,” he said. “Being in Windsor, for me, Windsor is her. She loved it here.” He described his relationship with his grandparents as growing warmer over time, particularly in their later years.

The prince revealed that 2024 was the most challenging year of his life, citing Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis and King Charles III’s health struggles. “Trying to protect my family while continuing my duties was difficult,” William admitted. “Life can throw unexpected challenges, and it’s been important to keep the family safe and supported.”

Family pressures, he said, outweigh royal responsibilities. “Stuff to do with family overwhelms me quite a bit,” he said. He also reflected on lessons from his parents’ divorce, emphasizing the importance of creating a secure and loving home for his children.

On his children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, William shared details of their daily lives and routines. The children do not have phones, and their days are filled with outdoor activities, sports, and music lessons. William also spoke candidly about coping with the loss of their family dog, Lupo, noting the emotional impact on the family.

Looking ahead, William expressed his commitment to bringing thoughtful change to the monarchy. “Change for good is on my agenda,” he said. “Not overly radical, but necessary changes that will have a positive impact.” He emphasized balancing tradition with modern relevance and prioritizing authenticity over ceremonial expectation.

Throughout the interview, William showcased humor and warmth, from riding an electric scooter to navigate Windsor Castle to reminiscing about pub crawls at St. Andrews University. Levy described the prince as relaxed and approachable, a side of royal life rarely seen by the public.

The episode, released October 3, provides a rare glimpse into the personal side of a future king, highlighting his dedication to family, resilience through adversity, and vision for a modernized monarchy that respects tradition while embracing meaningful change.

FAQs

1. Which show featured Prince William’s interview?Apple TV+’s The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy.
2. What personal challenges did William discuss from 2024?Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis and King Charles III’s health issues.
3. How does Prince William plan to approach the future of the monarchy?He intends to implement thoughtful, meaningful changes that balance tradition with modern relevance.