Saturday, Prince William was in attendance at Pope Francis’s funeral. As the only British royal present, he represented his father, King Charles. In Vatican City, a quiet but moving ceremony took place. The 42-year-old prince walked over to the golden-encased coffin to view and pay his respects before heading to his seat. He is now certainly taking more royal duties on his own hand. This is especially significant now given King Charles’ recent cancer diagnosis.
At the Queen’s funeral, Prince William found himself next to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Their attendance was a further demonstration of the solidarity among these world leaders, underlining their grief at the passing of the Pope. Princess Kate remained in Windsor with their three children—11-year-old Prince George, 9-year-old Princess Charlotte and 6-year-old Prince Louis. This absence highlighted the growing roles and responsibilities Prince William is taking on as the elder heir-in-waiting.
The news of Prince William’s participation in this historic event has generated tremendous excitement. Its diplomatic significance and his expected disposition have certainly captured the imaginations of many. Body language expert Judi James commented that his behavior at the service was the behavior of an “ultimate king.” She mused on how his disposition embodied grace under fire with everything swirling around the political circus of the day.
“It is probably the biggest compliment to William to say that he was close to invisible at the Pope’s funeral, with his elegant body language looking quietly composed and appropriate while all the global leadership dramas swirled around him.” – Judi James
James noted that Prince William’s quiet presence was the most notable of all, given the larger than life VIPs in the room. William’s height stood out, Williams said, the way William carried his body screamed laid-back professionalism.
“Unlike Trump and co, William had only one job which was to pay respects and he executed it perfectly. His height singles him out but his body language was low-key.” – Judi James
As the King’s first moment of concentrated reflection, this was underscored by his very slight head bow at the coffin, in tandem with Prime Minister Starmer. According to James, this behavior was an expression of honor and decorum.
“When he stood with Starmer at the coffin he bowed his head slightly in a moment of reflection and it was his call in terms of ending the pose as he turned out of it first to signal to the Starmers that it was time to move away.” – Judi James
As Prince William succeeds at balancing his royal responsibilities while leading his environmental focus and his Homewards homelessness campaign, his suave style during big public appearances has most definitely raised some eyebrows.
“This ability to be elegantly polite and drama-free will help make William the ideal king one day,” James added.
His poise at the funeral has resonated with royal fans online, with one user on X commenting on his appearance:
“The Prince of Wales attending the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. His suit and tie is on point and Wills is looking every inch a statesman.” – Anonymous user on X
Another supporter highlighted Prince William’s favorable reputation abroad:
“Prince William is well thought of and very much loved and admired here in America… He will make an excellent king.” – Anonymous user on X
