Prince William, known for his composed demeanor and quiet strength, revealed a deeply personal side during his appearance on Apple TV+’s The Reluctant Traveler. In a rare emotional moment, the Prince of Wales opened up to host Eugene Levy about the profound absence left by his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II — and his grandfather, Prince Philip.
“It’s been quite a change,” William admitted, his voice tinged with reflection as he guided Levy through the historic corridors of Windsor Castle. “I do miss my grandmother and my grandfather.”
For many, it was a strikingly human glimpse of the future king — not as a royal figurehead, but as a grandson mourning the loss of two people who shaped his life. The Queen passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96, and Prince Philip died just a year earlier, in April 2021.
As William and Levy toured Windsor, the prince confessed that being there always brings back memories of Her Majesty. “You think about them not being here anymore, and particularly being in Windsor — for me, Windsor is her,” he said softly. “She loved it here. She spent most of her time here. Showing you around today is very much about making sure I’m doing it in the way she’d want you to see it.”
The setting carried deep symbolism — Windsor Castle, where the Queen spent her final years and where she now rests at St. George’s Chapel, remains a place filled with echoes of her reign. William also shared touching details about her deep affection for her horses, calling them “a big deal for her” and part of why Windsor always felt like home.
In an earlier clip from the series, William reflected on the challenges he’s faced in recent years, describing 2023–2024 as “the hardest year I’ve ever had.” His words hinted at the immense personal and public pressures that come with royal life — a life defined by duty, resilience, and loss.
Yet, amid the somber moments, William managed to bring warmth and humor, joking with Levy that “we provide this service for everyone — personalized tours everywhere.”
Prince William’s episode of The Reluctant Traveler premieres October 3 on Apple TV+, offering an unprecedented look at a man balancing legacy, loss, and love for the family who came before him
