Royal Experts Say Prince William's Absence From Godfather’s Memorial Is 'Worrying'

funeral is held for sir bobby charlton
Experts Say Wills Canceling Event Is "Worrying" Karwai Tang - Getty Images
  • Prince William pulled out of a memorial service for his godfather at the last minute due to "personal reasons."

  • Royal experts say that the Prince of Wales'absence is "worrying" and "concerning."

  • It's unclear why he did not attend, but it was not related to King Charles' health.


Prince William pulled out of a memorial service for his godfather at the last minute on Tuesday, Feb. 27, prompting growing concern and speculation.

The prince was scheduled to give a reading at St. George's Chapel—which is right next door to his home in Windsor—and royal reporters were told nothing more than that the cancellation was for "personal reasons" and not related to King Charles' health.

At the same time, Kensington Palace confirmed that Kate Middleton "continues to be doing well" (presumably to stave off concern about her health), but royal experts are calling William's abrupt cancellation "worrying."

Royal biographer Phil Dampier told the Daily Mail that, "Constantine was his godfather and very close to all the royals, particularly King Charles, and he would have wanted William there as he didn't attend," adding that, "William only lives a stone's throw away, so it's very concerning."

Meanwhile, royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said, "William's non-appearance at the Memorial Service for his godfather King Constantine, the last king of Greece, owing to a personal matter is certainly unexpected. This will be an event that William will be extremely sad to have been unable to attend."

thanksgiving service for king constantine of the hellenes
Queen Camilla attending the memorial service.WPA Pool - Getty Images

As a reminder, Kensington Palace announced on January 17 that Kate Middleton had undergone abdominal surgery and would be in the hospital for 10-14 days. They released an update on January 29, saying, in part, "The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery. She is making good progress."

Kate is unlikely to return to royal duties until after Easter.

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