Next Tuesday marks a quiet but meaningful milestone in the life of Prince George. As he celebrates his 12th birthday on July 22, the future king steps closer toward the weighty responsibilities of royal life — and an age-old tradition may soon begin to shape his travels.
Since infancy, George has often appeared in public alongside his father, Prince William. But now, with both occupying the first and second places in the line of succession, royal protocol may begin to separate their paths when it comes to official travel. Under long-standing tradition, two heirs are discouraged from flying together — a precaution meant to protect the continuity of the monarchy in the unlikely event of an accident.
While the rule has at times been relaxed, particularly during George’s early childhood, his growing age and rising public profile suggest that future tours may see him fly solo, at least symbolically. It’s a subtle change, but one that underscores his unique role: not just as the young prince in family portraits, but as the monarch-in-waiting.
How William and Kate told him he’d one day be king
Long before this birthday, Prince George was gently made aware of his destiny — though not in haste or under pressure.
According to royal biographer Robert Lacey, William and Kate made a conscious decision to tell their son about his future “at a controlled moment” around the time of his seventh birthday in 2020. While the details of the conversation remain private, the message was clear: George’s life will involve service and duty, unlike that of most boys his age.
In his book Battle of Brothers, Lacey explained that Prince William was determined to handle the moment with care, having been shaped by his own childhood experiences. “William’s aim,” he wrote, “was to give his son a normal upbringing, while ensuring the monarchy remained relevant in a changing world.”
This approach reflects the couple’s broader parenting style. Despite George’s royal status, those close to the family say he’s being raised with humility. Royal expert Katie Nicholl shared that William and Kate have made it a point to treat all three of their children — George, Charlotte, and Louis — equally. “They’re not raising him to feel entitled,” she told OK! Magazine. “He doesn’t get special treatment just because he’s the heir.”
Still, the symbolism of his role hasn’t gone unnoticed. One memorable photograph taken in 2019 captured Queen Elizabeth II alongside Prince Charles, Prince William, and a young Prince George — four generations of monarchs, past and future, standing together. It was a quiet reminder of the continuity the royal family strives to uphold.
And now, as George turns 12 and begins stepping into his future with greater awareness, the royal family prepares to guide him through the next phase — not with spectacle, but with steady intention.