Royal Clubbers unanimously agree on Prince William's tears
The heir to the throne released an emotional video last week
Hello, Royal Clubbers, it’s Millie here. Last week, our Royal Editor Emily Nash shared her thoughts on the moment Prince William was moved to tears when speaking to Rhian Mannings about the tragic suicide of her husband, in a video released by Kensington Palace.
Emily noted the inclusion of William’s emotional reaction in the video was a “departure” from the norm, both for the royals and the Prince himself, who has kept his emotions firmly buttoned up in the past.
We asked you to share your thoughts: is it appropriate for a royal to show such emotional openness?
I can reveal that the results were sweepingly conclusive: all of you felt that Prince William’s reaction was justified.
Now, I can see why someone might not think that the tears were appropriate: Prince William is a public figure and his conduct goes against the traditional mantra of the royals, where feelings are best hidden behind a stiff upper lip.
But as Emily rightly pointed out, this video marks a major shift in the monarchy: William is a modern royal, and his emotions bring more attention to the issues that he is trying to highlight.
Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts in the comments. Royal Clubber Audrey made the astute observation that the Prince of Wales displayed “respect and deference” by coming to Rhian’s home and sitting with her at the table. “Very few people can play that role”, she added.
Watch the full video here
Geeta noted that Prince William’s own experience with bereavement, the loss of his mother Princess Diana and his grandparents likely contributed towards his emotional reaction.
Ann said: “It proves he is very compassionate and has the same sort of feelings as the rest of us. He has had his hard times over the past years the same as everyone else. He has to be admired for showing his feelings.” Well said, Ann!
Many of you echoed this sentiment, that William’s reaction humanises him, and it is a great thing for the causes he supports that he has such passion for social issues.
Indeed, I believe the Prince of Wales’s openness has enough power to really turn the tide for the monarchy. He himself has shared that change is on the agenda, that he has his own vision for how the monarchy might look in the future.
Because of his age, I think the Prince is in an incredibly strong position. He is a father, and holds enough maturity and thoughtfulness to be trusted by the older generation, but through his more friendly and human approach he can also be related to by the younger generation – a dual appeal.
Something that resonates with the younger generation is mental health, and an increased openness about feelings and emotions – something that William has spoken about frequently. As many of you agree, his emotions do him credit and can only be a strength to aid causes close to the royal family.
Thank you for sharing.