The Prince of Wales does some things differently to his father King Charles.

14:03, Mon, Jun 22, 2026 Updated: 14:04, Mon, Jun 22, 2026

King Charles and Prince William

King Charles and Prince William have a distinct difference, a royal expert has said (Image: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

Prince William may be similar to his father, King Charles, in many ways, but it seems there is one “distinct” difference between them. While they are both dedicated to the monarchy and creating good in the world, a royal expert has said that the double celebration of Father’s Day and Prince William’s birthday over the weekend has revealed just how different he is to his father.

This is because while William, 44, may be busy with royal work, he has always made sure not to put it above his family. Instead, he tries to make sure his work diary works around his family life. This is something him and Princess Catherine have always felt strongly about, as it allows them to be very present for their children Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, eight.

Get the latest news and gossip from the Royal Family plus selected offers and competitions Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Speaking to The Mirror, royal expert Jennie Bond said: “Unlike in many previous royal marriages, William is a really hands-on Dad — helping with the chaos of morning routines, doing the school runs, joining in the children’s games.

“This is where he has drawn a distinct line between himself and his father. Not that Charles was a bad parent, but he was often an absent parent because his work diary is always crammed.

“As we know, and in the face of some criticism, William has made the conscious and unabashed choice to put his children first whenever humanly possible.

“I’m sure his wife and kids love him all the more for that.”

Prince William and family

William has always put his family first (Image: Karwai Tang/WireImage)

While King Charles was a good dad, it is believed he was extremely busy and would work all times of day.

This is something William has addressed before, especially when talking about Charles as a grandfather, making a comment that suggests his busy schedule means he doesn’t always have enough time to spend with them.

In a documentary years ago to mark Charles' 70th birthday, William said: “Having more time with him at home would be lovely, and being able to you know, play with the grandchildren.

“Because when he's there, he's brilliant. But we need him there as much as possible."