The Royal Family were out in force today as they marked the annual Trooping the Colour 2024. But eagle-eyed fans were quick to pick-out a striking similarity between Prince William and his grandfather, the late Prince Philip.
Prince William was stood next to his wife, Princess Kate, on the infamous Buckingham Palace balcony. The nation had been unsure a as to whether Kate’s recovery would allow her to attend the prestigious event.
But at 6pm yesterday, she announced she would be coming – and looked the picture of elegance as she stepped out with her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
While the spotlight somewhat centred on the princess, who has not been seen in public since Sandringham on Christmas Day – some were quick to point out an astonishing resemblence between future King William and Prince Philip who died in April 2019.
Fans took to X to share their opinions, with one adding: “Prince William once again looking so much like his grandfather Prince Philip, always proud to serve monarch, military, country, and the legacy of his grandmother and ancestors.”
Other commenters responded naming him “iconic” and agreeing with the sentiment.
Another said: “I love Prince William. He’s such a presence, a true gentleman, strong and kind. I think he looks like a combination of his mother and his grandfather, Prince Philip.”
Today, Prince William demonstrated his horseback riding abilities as he took part in the parade alongside his uncle, Prince Edward and aunt Princess Anne. He rode a horse named Derby through the capital, in front of excited spectators lining The Mall.
It is the decades-old ritual that his late grandfather had carried out, alongside his wife, the late Queen Elizabeth for many years. As it customary, William wore the red uniform, which Philip would have also worn for the event – then his wife’s birthday.
King Charles was forced to stand down from riding a horse in the parade under the guidance of medics. This is because he is undergoing cancer treatment. He was required to perform his duties from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage.