Prince William is focusing on progress over palace drama. While appearing on stage in Brazil, the Prince of Wales politely sidestepped a question about the royal family’s recent upheavals.
Prince William Addresses ‘Change’ Within the Royal Family
CNN’s Christiane Amanpour asked the Prince of Wales about his remarks on Apple TV’s “The Reluctant Traveler” with Eugene Levy, where he spoke about pursuing “change for good.”
Amanpour pressed William to elaborate on his comments, “given there has been a lot of change in your family recently,” alluding to both Prince Andrew’s ongoing fallout and Prince Harry’s continued separation from royal duties, according to People.
William handled the question with his trademark composure. “I think the Earthshot Prize is a classic example of change,” he said. “Rather than talk about it, we’re doing it. That’s where I want it to be — these people in here are the true, actual heroes of our time. Change will come by backing them, not by what I do.”
He added, “I want to surround myself with people who want to make change and do good in the world.”
Amanpour circled back, asking if his dedication to “change for good” was something he wanted his son to take pride in. “Yeah, I think it’s really important,” William responded. “You have to provide leadership and a vision that there’s good things to come and that it’s not all negative. And for my children, particularly, knowing the planet’s going to be in a healthier, better state because of the brilliant people in this room is something that I love to tell them when they go to bed.”
The Future Monarch’s Earthshot Efforts Shine in Brazil
During his week-long visit to Brazil, Prince William promoted his environmental causes through the Earthshot Prize, United for Wildlife, and Cop30 events. According to HELLO!’s royal editor Emily Nash, who followed the trip closely, the prince struck the perfect balance between diplomacy and relatability.
“He really showed himself to be the consummate statesman as he advocated for the planet through his Earthshot Prize, United for Wildlife and Cop30 events, but managed to have plenty of fun along the way,” Nash said. “It was genuinely heartwarming to watch his interactions with local people, many of whom were amazed at how warm and approachable he was in person, happily holding babies, shaking hands and posing for selfies whenever asked.”
One standout moment came when William recreated the iconic photo of his mother, Princess Diana, in front of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue. Beneath the statue, he met the 2025 Earthshot Prize finalists alongside Rio’s mayor, Eduardo Paes, and visited the chapel underneath the landmark with Cardinal Orani João Tempesta and Padre Omar Raposo.
Despite the noise surrounding his relatives — including King Charles’ formal decision to strip Prince Andrew of his royal titles and Prince Harry’s Remembrance Day engagements in Canada — William remained focused on his mission.
