Prince William Opens Up About His Vision for the Future Monarchy and the Legacy He Hopes to Leave for Prince George

As the British royal family continues to navigate a new era following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, Prince William is already contemplating what kind of legacy he will one day leave as king — and how his 12-year-old son, Prince George, might carry it forward.

In the latest season of The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy on Apple TV+, the Prince of Wales, now 43, shares a rare and candid conversation with host Eugene Levy. Their discussion explores the future of the monarchy, the weight of royal responsibilities, and William’s personal hopes for meaningful change when the crown eventually passes to him.

Levy, 77, reflects nostalgically on watching Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation on one of the first television sets in his neighborhood, marking a poignant moment in royal history. That memory sets the stage for a heartfelt question to Prince William: “You will one day be king of England. Do you think about that at all?”

Prince William responds with thoughtful restraint. “It’s not something I wake up in the morning and think about,” he says. “Because to me, being authentic and being myself and being genuine is what drives me.”

He continues: “You can attach whatever labels and roles that come with that, but if I’m not true to myself, and I’m not true to what I stand for and believe in — then it doesn’t really matter who you are, it gets lost. I take my roles and my responsibilities seriously, but it’s important, like I said to you earlier, you don’t feel they own you — you have to own them.”

These reflections offer a glimpse into the Prince’s evolving philosophy on leadership — one that is deeply rooted in authenticity and purpose. (People Magazine)

On Parenting and Preparing Prince George for the Future

Levy then pivots to a more personal topic — William’s vision for his eldest son, Prince George, who is second in line to the throne.

“It’s an interesting question, and it’s a big question,” William says thoughtfully. “There’s a lot to consider. But obviously, I want to create a world in which my son is proud of what we do — a world and a job that actually impacts people’s lives for the better.”

This desire for meaningful impact is underscored by William’s own experiences growing up in the royal spotlight. “That is caveated with, I hope we don’t go back to some of the practices in the past that Harry and I had to grow up in,” he adds. “And I’ll do everything I can to make sure we don’t regress in that situation.”

William has spoken in the past about how the intense scrutiny and pressure of public life shaped his childhood. In recent years, he has emphasized protecting his children’s mental well-being and giving them a more grounded upbringing, away from the intense glare of the media. (BBC News)

A Monarchy Embracing Thoughtful Evolution

When asked if the monarchy might take a “slightly different direction” under his leadership, Prince William replies with quiet confidence.

“I think it’s safe to say that change is on my agenda. Change for good,” he says. “And I embrace that and I enjoy that change — I don’t fear it. That’s the bit that excites me: the idea of being able to bring some change. Not overly radical change, but changes that I think need to happen.”

This commitment to reform echoes past statements by William, who has increasingly focused on modernizing the monarchy’s image. From his climate advocacy work with the Earthshot Prize to prioritizing mental health and social equality, William is positioning himself as a future monarch who blends tradition with timely relevance. (The Guardian)

Looking Ahead

The Apple TV+ press release describes this third season of The Reluctant Traveler as an exploration of the “ultimate travel bucket list,” and the episode featuring Prince William marks a highlight in the series. The episode is part of an eight-part season that follows Eugene Levy as he travels across the U.K., discovering not just places — but people, perspectives, and purpose.

The U.K.-based episode featuring Prince William premiered on October 3, 2025, and new episodes will continue to air weekly on Apple TV+.

In a moment where royal institutions are under greater scrutiny and calls for transparency and modernization are louder than ever, Prince William’s words suggest that the future of the monarchy could very well be one of mindful evolution — led by a man determined to balance duty with a personal sense of integrity, and to prepare the next generation for the same.