Opinion: Why Prince William needs to speak about his health

Prince William and Kate Middleton are at the forefront of modernizing the monarchy, but public opinion is shifting. Polls show that support for the Royal Family is at an all-time low, with many questioning if it’s time to slim down the monarchy and cut funding.

In this new era under King Charles, William’s role has evolved. Last fall, he sparked concern when he appeared with a beard—something his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, would never have allowed. Many royal fans online speculated that he looked unwell, but William remained silent, refusing to address the rumors. While he’s entitled to privacy, this silence might hurt the Royal Family’s public image.

The monarchy has long avoided interviews and responding to rumors, including the accusations from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. But as the monarchy faces declining public support, staying quiet no longer works. Prince William has an opportunity to shift this by being more open.

Transparency could help combat misinformation and connect with the public. A simple explanation, like why he chose to grow a beard, could make a huge difference. Being relatable to the public will help restore trust in the Royal Family and show they’re adapting to the modern media landscape.

Support for the Royal Family dropped significantly after Queen Elizabeth’s passing and amid the ongoing royal rift. If Prince William and Kate are to modernize the monarchy, they’ll need to engage with the public, show they’re not above them, and rebuild the trust that’s slipping away.

Do you think Prince William should be more open about his health and personal life? Share your thoughts!