He opens up about duty, authenticity, and owning one’s responsibilities in rare interview
Prince William appeared to send a subtle message to Harry as he spoke candidly about the weight of royal duty and the importance of staying true to oneself. Though the brothers remain estranged, the Prince of Wales’s words carried a tone of reflection that many believe could be directed toward his younger sibling.
The future King opened up about the immense responsibility he carries and hinted at the changes he envisions for the monarchy. His comments come at a time when the Duke of Sussex is reportedly facing renewed tension with Palace aides. According to reports, Harry was left furious after his meeting with King Charles was portrayed as merely “formal.” Talks about a potential special role for him were also said to have been dismissed, adding to the strain.
Frustrated, Harry has accused the Palace’s “men in grey suits” of interfering in his efforts to reconcile with his father and leaking stories to the press. Against this backdrop, William’s words seemed to hold quiet wisdom—encouraging focus on one’s purpose and integrity rather than titles and labels.
The rare insight came during William’s appearance in Eugene Levy’s docuseries The Reluctant Traveller. When asked if he often thinks about ascending to the throne, William revealed that it’s not something he dwells on each day. Instead, he said, he focuses on “being authentic and being myself, and being genuine.”
“You can attach whatever labels and roles that come on top of that,” he continued, “but if you’re not true to yourself and the things you stand for, it doesn’t matter who you are—it gets lost.” He added, “I take my roles and responsibilities seriously, but it’s important you don’t feel they own you—you have to own them.”
It was a rare glimpse into William’s personal philosophy—and perhaps, intentionally or not, a message of calm and perspective for his brother across the Atlantic.
