In recent days, the British Royal Family has participated in a series of solemn public events, with Princess Anne and Catherine, Princess of Wales, seen leading ceremonial duties during an official royal memorial procession. These appearances marked the continued commitment of senior royals to national service, including what some have described as the symbolic first public leadership act under the reign of King Charles III—not “King William,” as no abdication or succession has occurred.
As Princess Anne, long respected for her decades of royal service, stepped into her customary role, the public and royal watchers took note not only of her composure but also of growing interest in the future of the Princess Royal title, currently held by Anne herself.
Princess Anne: The Current Princess Royal
Princess Anne, born in 1950, is the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. She was granted the title Princess Royal in 1987 by her mother, a designation traditionally given to the monarch’s eldest daughter. It is a title held for life and is not automatically passed down upon the holder’s death or succession.
The title of Princess Royal has existed since the 17th century. The first person to hold it was Princess Mary, daughter of King Charles I, in 1642. Only seven women in British history have carried this title.
Unlike hereditary peerages, the Princess Royal title is not inherited automatically, and it is granted at the monarch’s discretion. This means the next holder could be Princess Charlotte, daughter of Prince William and Princess Catherine, but only under specific future circumstances.
Princess Charlotte and the Title of Princess Royal
Princess Charlotte of Wales, born on May 2, 2015, is the second child and only daughter of the Prince and Princess of Wales. She is currently fourth in the line of succession to the British throne, following her grandfather King Charles III, father Prince William, and older brother Prince George.
While public discussion around Charlotte potentially becoming the next Princess Royal has gained traction in media commentary and among royal watchers, there has been no official confirmation from Buckingham Palace or Kensington Palace regarding such a title being considered at this time.
Historically, the Princess Royal title cannot be held by two individuals simultaneously. Therefore, Princess Charlotte cannot be named Princess Royal unless the title is vacant, which would occur only upon the death of Princess Anne or her relinquishment of the title—something that has not occurred as of July 2025.
Any future decision to grant Princess Charlotte the title would be made solely by the reigning monarch, likely King William V in the future, should that moment arrive.
Recent Royal Processions and National Appearances
In official photos and media coverage from outlets such as BBC News, The Guardian, and ITV, Princess Anne and Catherine, Princess of Wales, were seen leading a royal delegation during a recent public funeral procession for a prominent national figure. The event drew attention to the unwavering dedication of both royal women, especially in the continued absence of Catherine from some duties earlier in the year due to abdominal surgery and recovery.
This marked one of Princess Catherine’s return engagements, following her gradual reintroduction to public life in accordance with medical advice. Kensington Palace has confirmed her return would be measured and appropriate to her health.
Royal Titles and Constitutional Procedures
Royal titles such as “Princess Royal” are part of the long-standing traditions of the British monarchy, but they do not carry governing authority. They serve symbolic and ceremonial purposes, often recognizing service, lineage, and relationship to the reigning monarch.
The title of King William has not been bestowed, nor is there any indication that King Charles III intends to abdicate. As of July 2025, Charles continues to reign as monarch, albeit with a reduced schedule due to ongoing cancer treatment, confirmed in a public statement by Buckingham Palace in February 2024.
Prince William, as the Prince of Wales, continues to serve in an increasingly visible role, supporting royal engagements and managing responsibilities during the King’s medical treatment. However, any suggestion that he has been crowned or declared king is unsubstantiated and incorrect based on available official information.
Public Support for Princess Catherine and Princess Anne
Both Princess Catherine and Princess Anne enjoy high approval ratings in the UK and across the Commonwealth. According to YouGov polling data, Catherine consistently ranks among the most admired royals, praised for her grace, professionalism, and dedication to family and public service.
Princess Anne, long considered one of the hardest-working royals, has maintained a busy schedule of engagements, often exceeding 400 appearances per year. She is closely associated with organizations such as Save the Children, St. John Ambulance, and The Royal College of Midwives.
Their joint public appearances highlight intergenerational strength within the monarchy and the careful balance between tradition and adaptation to modern expectations.
Princess Charlotte’s Future Role in the Monarchy
As the monarchy continues to modernize, Princess Charlotte is expected to play a key role in the next generation of royal leadership. Alongside her brothers, Prince George and Prince Louis, she is being raised in a structured environment that emphasizes education, service, and privacy.
Charlotte currently attends Lambrook School in Berkshire and frequently participates in public engagements that are age-appropriate. She has been present at events such as Trooping the Colour, Easter services at Windsor, and official royal family portraits.
While there is speculation about what title she might receive in adulthood—be it Princess Royal or another honorary position—no royal titles are granted in advance, and all decisions remain at the discretion of the monarch.
Conclusion
Despite speculative headlines and misleading social media claims, there has been no official change to Princess Anne’s title, nor any confirmation that Princess Charlotte will inherit the Princess Royal designation in the immediate future. Similarly, reports referring to “King William” are inaccurate, as King Charles III continues to reign.
What is clear, however, is the enduring strength and service-minded leadership of Princess Anne and Princess Catherine, both of whom represent the past and future of the British monarchy. Their appearances at recent memorial events demonstrate unity, grace, and a shared commitment to duty.
As Princess Charlotte matures, her future in the royal family will be shaped by tradition, public service, and evolving royal expectations. For now, she remains a cherished young member of the Royal Family, guided by strong role models and supported by a public that continues to admire her growing presence.
