In the past, the Royal Family has maintained a reserved stance on public selfies, with the late Queen Elizabeth politely declining such requests during her reign. While King Charles has shown some openness to photos, he has also expressed reluctance toward engaging in selfies.
However, Prince William is embracing a more contemporary approach to public interactions, using selfies and video messages as a way to connect with people in a more personal and relatable manner.
The Prince of Wales gained viral fame in November when he appeared in a playful TikTok video with a student, explaining her tardiness to a lecturer. His sense of humor and willingness to engage resonated with viewers, earning him praise for his approachability.
During a visit to South Africa, William further showcased his lighthearted side by taking a cheerful selfie with Robert Irwin, son of the late conservationist Steve Irwin. The moment highlighted William’s ability to connect across generations and causes.
Most recently, the prince filmed a selfie-style video message to send good luck to England Rugby Union coach Kevin Sinfield, who was participating in a charity challenge for Rob Burrow, a former rugby player living with motor neurone disease.
In a conversation with Robert Irwin, William was asked about his favorite African animal. With warmth, he responded, “That’s a tough question. My children ask me this all the time. I think I’ll go with the cheetah – a fantastic animal.”
This evolving approach marks a noticeable shift in the Royal Family’s connection with the public. By embracing modern platforms and showing his down-to-earth side, Prince William is redefining how royals engage with people in the digital age.
