Princess Beatrice may be a quietly influential royal, but she’s unlikely to ever become a senior working royal under Prince William’s reign — and a former royal butler says there are two key reasons why
As Princess Beatrice marks her 37th birthday today, August 8, a former royal butler has revealed why, despite her popularity and growing presence within the royal family, she is unlikely to be elevated to the status of a senior working royal under Prince William’s reign.
Grant Harrold, who served King Charles at Highgrove between 2004 and 2011, says the monarch is expected to make a heartfelt gesture for his niece’s birthday – but her future within the monarchy is unlikely to change significantly.
Speaking on behalf of Fruity King, Harrold noted that Princess Beatrice is held in high regard by the entire royal family, particularly by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
“The King will be keen to celebrate Princess Beatrice,” he shared.
“King Charles and Queen Camilla remain close to both Beatrice and Eugenie. Beatrice is well-liked across the royal family and often steps in to support. While the celebrations may be a private affair, a celebration is expected, reflecting her quiet but valued presence within the Firm.”
Despite not being a full-time working royal, Beatrice has taken on more responsibilities over the years and continues to offer support when called upon — all while maintaining a separate career as a strategist at tech company Afiniti.
Her ability to balance royal duties with her professional life has even led some commentators to describe her as a “secret weapon” for the Firm. Yet Harrold believes that Prince William will refrain from granting her a more official royal role for two key reasons.
“Beatrice has her own career, so I don’t see William making her a senior member of the working royals,” he explained.
“They pull ranks when they need the support, and she’s been known to step up. But she has a job and does her own thing. She’s still such a valued member of the family.”
Harold also praised Beatrice for her diplomatic handling of royal tensions — particularly between Prince William and Prince Harry.
“She gets on with William, as well as Harry,” Harrold added.
“I think she’s been very diplomatic with the brothers and their feud. She’ll have been careful to maintain a relationship with both.”
As for her birthday, Harrold anticipates a modest yet meaningful celebration.
“I don’t see any big celebrations, as it’s not a major birthday,” he said.
“I think Beatrice will go for a quiet and private affair with best wishes from the whole family, and a nice gift from King Charles. He doesn’t tend to give money, so I imagine he would give Beatrice a piece of jewellery.”
