Prince George’s personality trait is a ‘heartbreaking’ reminder for Prince William

Prince George’s vibrant personality serves as a poignant reminder of the grandmother he will never meet, Princess Diana. The young royal, described as “funny, feisty, and cheeky,” bears a striking resemblance to Diana’s spirited character, which stirs deep emotions in those around him, particularly his father, Prince William. British psychotherapist Julia Samuel, who is a close friend of Princess Diana and the godmother to Prince George, shared insights about George’s personality on the “How to Fail” podcast with Elizabeth Day. Samuel highlighted how George’s behavior is reminiscent of Diana’s own playful and rebellious nature, emphasizing that Diana would have adored George’s lively spirit.

Samuel, who became friends with Diana after meeting her at a dinner party in 1987, frequently buys George “impossible” noisy toys, a playful nod to the late Princess’s love for fun and laughter. This running joke reflects Diana’s own mischievous side, known to those who were close to her. Diana, remembered as a compassionate and caring figure, also had a playful, rebellious streak, often encouraging her sons, William and Harry, to embrace life with the same zest and humor. Harry, reflecting on his mother’s personality, has mentioned how she was one of the “naughtiest parents,” always up for a laugh and even smuggling sweets into their socks during football games. These anecdotes highlight Diana’s unique parenting style that balanced love, care, and a sense of fun.

George, born on July 22, 2013, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, shares a deeper connection to his late grandmother beyond his playful nature. The hospital is the same place where Prince William was born 31 years earlier, creating a symbolic continuity between the generations. Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, introduced their newborn son to the world on the hospital steps, echoing a moment similar to when Diana introduced her sons to the public.

The choice of Julia Samuel as one of Prince George’s seven godparents was seen as a tribute to Diana’s memory, underscoring her lasting influence on the royal family. Samuel, speaking of her godson, mentioned that George’s personality is “amazing” and that Diana “would have loved him so much.” This sentiment is a reflection of the enduring impact Diana’s life and character have had on her family, even years after her untimely death.

Prince William has openly expressed his desire for George to experience a normal upbringing, despite the challenges posed by royal life and constant media attention. In an interview with GQ, William stated, “I want George to grow up in a real, living environment, I don’t want him growing up behind palace walls, he has to be out there.” This desire for a normal life for his children is also influenced by his own upbringing under Diana’s guidance, where she prioritized a balance between royal duties and real-world experiences for her sons.

The resemblance between George’s personality and Diana’s spirit serves as a constant reminder for Prince William of the mother he lost too soon. It is a bittersweet reflection on what could have been if Diana had lived to see her grandchildren. As George grows up, his behaviors and mannerisms continually evoke memories of the grandmother he never knew, yet whose legacy remains a vibrant part of his life and the lives of those around him. This enduring connection to Diana through George’s personality is both a comfort and a source of heartache for Prince William, who is reminded of the loving, playful mother he lost at a young age.