Belated message raises questions but signals unity within the royal family
Prince William and Catherine sparked speculation on Princess Anne’s 75th birthday after their public tribute to the Princess Royal came later in the day.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, who did not join King Charles and Queen Camilla at the National Service of Remembrance for the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, eventually turned to Instagram to post a photo of Anne with the caption: “Wishing Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal a very Happy 75th Birthday!”
The message, though warm, arrived after the couple had already shared tributes to war heroes on VJ Day, while remaining silent on Anne’s milestone. This delay led some royal watchers to question their relationship with the Princess Royal.
Still, many saw the post as a deliberate move to push back on feud rumours and underline affection for Anne, who is often described as the hardest-working member of the royal family.
Reports of tension surfaced last month, when The Times revealed that Anne was frustrated William had not taken on more of the monarchy’s “bread-and-butter” duties. “She’s still doing most of the investitures [at Windsor] even though William lives there,” a source claimed. “It annoys her.”
Investitures, the ceremonies where honours are awarded on behalf of the Crown, are carried out only by the King, the Prince of Wales, and the Princess Royal. Around 30 such ceremonies take place each year, according to the royal family’s website.
Despite reports of disagreement, William and Catherine’s tribute appeared to be a public show of unity, suggesting that family harmony is being prioritised over speculation.
