The pool of senior royals available to support King Charles—and, eventually, Prince William—is becoming noticeably smaller. Beyond the Prince and Princess of Wales, there are currently no full-time working royals under the age of 60. As figures such as Princess Anne and the Duke of Gloucester gradually scale back their duties, the responsibility of maintaining the monarchy’s public presence is set to fall to the next generation.

In a recent video commentary, Daily Mail columnist Richard Eden highlighted the growing vacuum within the royal ranks. “With the former Prince Andrew effectively removed from royal duties, and Prince Harry and Meghan now settled in the United States, there is an increasing need for a fresh face to step forward,” he observed.

According to Eden, that emerging figure is none other than 12-year-old Prince George. Over the past year, the young royal has taken part in two key engagements alongside his parents: a VE Day tea in May, where he met veterans of the Second World War, and the Festival of Remembrance on 8 November, where he accompanied his mother, the Princess of Wales.

Prince George joined mom Princess Kate and grandparents King Charles and Queen Camilla at the Festival of Remembrance on November 8.

Eden noted that Catherine played a guiding role during the remembrance service, subtly demonstrating how George might navigate future public appearances. “We saw her gently lead the way, showing how capable George could be in handling engagements when the time comes,” he remarked.

Prince George showed his confidence at public engagements during the Festival of Remembrance.

Reflecting on the VE Day gathering earlier this year, Eden recalled how noticeably attentive the young prince had been. “Despite his age, he conversed easily with the veterans and showed genuine curiosity,” he said. He added that remembrance events carry deep significance for the Royal Family—and are evidently meaningful to George as well.

The Prince of Wales has also shared insights into his son’s interests. During an Armistice Day visit, Catherine mentioned that George enjoys building vintage model aircraft. William, meanwhile, has openly admitted that his son has surpassed him in history knowledge at the same age.

George is pictured with his mother and military families at a VE Day 80th anniversary event in May.

While William was abroad in Brazil for the Earthshot Prize awards the week before Remembrance Day, he returned in time for the Sunday commemorations but was unable to attend the preceding evening’s concert. Eden interpreted this as William entrusting Catherine and George to represent the family. “He seemed perfectly content to let them take the lead,” Eden said. “I suspect we’ll be seeing George at many more events of this kind. He handled himself impressively, and Catherine is clearly helping him grow in confidence.”