Prince William turned 44 today – a milestone that fell on Father's Day, prompting an outpouring of tributes from his wife and children. Kensington Palace released a picture of the Prince of Wales with his daughter, Princess Charlotte, accompanied by a message from Kate Middleton, Prince George, Charlotte and Prince Louis. “Happy birthday and Father’s Day to the best Papa in the World! We love you very much. C, G, C & L,” it read, followed by two pink heart emojis.
Across the Atlantic, the Duchess of Sussex marked the occasion with her own tribute. Meghan posted a picture of Prince Harry embracing their two children, Archie and Lilibet, on Instagram. “They’re so lucky to have you. We all are. Happy Father’s Day to our one and only,” she wrote.
“Prince William's children called him 'the best papa in the world' as he turned 44 on Father's Day.”
King Charles also used the day to honour his own father. Sharing a picture of himself and the late Prince Philip in military uniform, taken in 1971 after Charles completed his RAF training in Lincolnshire, a post read: “Celebrating all Fathers, and thinking of those who wish they could be with their Dads, today.”
The birthday wishes come just over a week after the Waleses reunited with the King at Trooping the Colour. William wore his red Welsh Guards uniform, while Charlotte opted for a traditional cream dress. Kate Middleton wore a baby blue Catherine Walker coat dress, drawing comparisons with an outfit famously worn by Princess Diana in 1987, and heels that matched her daughter’s. Prince George and Prince Louis twinned in dark suits with matching baby blue ties.
Earlier this week, the Prince of Wales was joined by the Princess of Wales at Royal Ascot – the first time Catherine had attended the event since announcing her cancer diagnosis in 2024. The couple also made a joint appearance at Monday’s Garter Day celebrations at Windsor Castle.
Meanwhile, the family is preparing for a new chapter. The Waleses confirmed that Prince George, 12, will attend Eton College from September, following in his father’s footsteps. He will finish his final term at Lambrook School in Berkshire – also attended by his sister Charlotte and brother Louis – in July. Kensington Palace stated: “Prince George will attend Eton College from this September.”