Prince William surprised fans and students with a lighthearted TikTok appearance during his recent trip to Northern Ireland. On Nov. 14, the Prince of Wales, 42, visited Ulster University as part of his ongoing efforts to combat homelessness through his Homewards initiative. While the visit had serious objectives, it took a playful turn when William recorded a TikTok video for a student running late to class.
In the now-viral clip, Samantha Johnson, a university student, can be seen asking the prince to help explain her tardiness. Surrounded by a group of smiling students, she said, “Yeah, just tell her why we’re late,” before handing over the moment to William.
The prince, confirming the professor’s name, addressed the camera with charm and humor: “Lesley, I’m very sorry we’re late, but they seem to be caught up, and they wouldn’t believe that you were here, so just wanted to say hi.” His quip left the group laughing, and Johnson later shared the video with the caption, “POV — Prince William gives you the best excuse for being late.”
The interaction quickly won over social media, with the video racking up over 4.2 million views on TikTok. Johnson shared her experience with PEOPLE, praising the prince’s genuine interest in their lives and plans. “He gave the most positive vibes and seems like such a sweet, kind-hearted individual,” she said. When asked if her professor accepted the royal excuse, she confirmed, “Of course I did,” adding that it was a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
This lighter moment was part of a broader visit where Prince William engaged with Ulster University students and faculty. The university is playing a key role in bolstering Northern Ireland’s creative industries, which generate over $1.7 billion annually for the local economy and employ more than 24,000 people.
William’s TikTok appearance also signals a growing trend of the royal family embracing informal interactions. Once reluctant to pose for selfies, the royals now often participate in more relatable, public exchanges. Earlier this year, Prince William and Princess Kate posed for selfies with hospital staff during a visit to Liverpool, further cementing their modern approach to royal duties.
However, 2024 has not been without challenges for the royal couple. Princess Kate stepped away from official engagements for much of the year while undergoing cancer treatment. In September, she announced that she had completed chemotherapy in a heartfelt family video filmed in Norfolk. The clip offered an intimate glimpse into their family life, resonating deeply with fans.
Prince William’s playful TikTok moment demonstrates his ability to connect with younger audiences while balancing his royal responsibilities. It’s a testament to his evolving role in making the monarchy more approachable and relevant in today’s world.
