Prince George turns 12 today, and the royal family is celebrating this special milestone with a new portrait and a wave of heartfelt messages. The eldest son of Prince William and Princess Catherine—second in line to the British throne—continues to capture the public’s imagination as he steps further into the spotlight.
A brand-new photograph, taken by renowned photographer Josh Shinner, was released by Kensington Palace to mark Prince George’s 12th birthday. In the image, George looks cheerful and relaxed, dressed in a white checked shirt and brown fleece vest, leaning casually against a rustic wooden gate in the Norfolk countryside. He wears a blue and white friendship bracelet, a trend also favored by his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Birthday Wishes and Social Media Buzz
Royal fans have flooded social media with birthday wishes for Prince George after the portrait was shared on the official Prince and Princess of Wales’ accounts. The photo’s caption reads, “Happy 12th Birthday to Prince George!” complete with a cake emoji. This tradition of releasing new images for royal birthdays is a cherished one, allowing the public to witness how much George, and his siblings, have grown each year.
In addition to the portrait, Kensington Palace delighted followers with a candid video. The video, filmed behind the scenes in Norfolk, captures George giggling and walking hand-in-hand with Charlotte and Louis. Family moments like these are rare glimpses into their close-knit bond and growing personalities.
Prince George: A Year of Growth and New Experiences
The past year has been transformative for Prince George as he prepares for the next steps in his royal journey. In spring, he attended a Champions League football match in Paris with Prince William, showcasing his passion for sports. More recently, George was seen courtside at Wimbledon alongside his parents and sister, cheering from the Royal Box and meeting winning player Jannik Sinner.
George has also taken part in several official events:
- Attended the VE Day military procession and balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace, observing royal traditions.
- Participated in the Trooping the Colour ceremony for King Charles’s birthday celebrations, joining the family for the RAF flypast.
- Enjoyed summer activities with his siblings, exploring gardens and learning about conservation from his grandfather, King Charles.
Speculation is now mounting over which secondary school Prince George will attend next year. As he nears his teenage years, tradition suggests he could follow in his father’s footsteps at Eton College, though Marlborough College is also being considered.
Birthday Traditions: Prince George Shines at 12
Every birthday brings a sense of tradition and excitement in the royal household. For Prince George, the focus this year is on family, fun, and making memories before teenage life begins. It’s widely reported that the Wales family is taking advantage of the summer break, possibly enjoying quality time together on holiday in Greece.
Prince George’s evolving style, interests, and hobbies continue to shape public perception. His flair for sports—ranging from football and tennis to cricket and rugby—is well documented. He’s also pursuing flying lessons, developing confidence, and adventuresome spirit. As the oldest of three, George sets an example for Charlotte and Louis, nurturing a happy sibling dynamic.
Prince George in the Spotlight
Prince George’s role as a future monarch means that each birthday is a matter of public interest and royal significance. This year’s celebrations reinforce his growing involvement in royal events as well as his parents’ dedication to providing a balanced upbringing.
Kate and William aim to ensure George enjoys a “normal” childhood while responsibly handling his unique responsibilities. Royal watchers noted George’s striking resemblance to his father William in this year’s portrait—a subtle nod to royal continuity and family legacy.
Quick Facts: Prince George at 12
As Prince George celebrates another year, the world looks forward to seeing how he will continue to shape the modern monarchy while enjoying the experiences of youth.
Thank you for joining us in marking Prince George’s 12th birthday—share your wishes or thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more royal updates!