
As the curtain falls on 2024, it’s clear that the year has been one of extraordinary challenges for the Royal Family. From health crises affecting the King and the Princess of Wales to the ongoing dramas surrounding Prince Andrew and Prince Harry, 2024 was anything but smooth sailing. But what does 2025 hold? TalkTV’s Royal Correspondent, Rupert Bell, offered his insights in an end-of-year roundup.
Bell describes 2025 as a “period of regrouping” for the Royal Family. “2024 was seismic,” he explains, recalling the hospitalization of both the King and the Princess of Wales early in the year. The health scares forced the Prince of Wales to scale back engagements to focus on his family, a role Bell emphasizes is “as it should be.”
However, there’s hope for a reset in 2025. The Princess of Wales is reportedly eager to resume foreign engagements, signaling a return to normalcy. “There’s a lot of optimism,” Bell notes. “The Christmas break seems to have provided a chance to reset.”
While no major royal milestones, such as weddings or jubilees, are anticipated, the Royals are expected to maintain a busy schedule. State visits and commemorations—such as potential events marking 80 years since the end of World War II—are likely highlights.
“Nothing enormous is on the cards,” Bell says, “but this year is about reconnecting with the public. The King has been visible even through trying times, and we expect more of that in 2025.”
The Princess of Wales’s increasing visibility, including her Westminster Abbey Christmas Carol concert, has also been well-received. “Even routine events like the Christmas Day walk to church have become semi-official engagements, staged with meticulous care,” Bell observes.
When it comes to the Royals’ more controversial figures—Prince Andrew and Prince Harry—Bell is not expecting any major developments. “For Harry and Meghan, it’s about making their American life work,” he says. “They’ve got their hands full with various projects, from Invictus Games in February to rumored ventures like a cooking show and a lifestyle brand.”
Bell stresses the importance of the Invictus Games for Harry. “It’s where he thrives—connecting with service men and women. When he focuses on what matters to him, he shines. Hopefully, he’ll use 2025 to reinforce his role as a figurehead for meaningful causes.”
As for Prince Andrew, Bell suggests the status quo will remain. “He’s keeping a low profile, as he should.”
Despite a turbulent year, the Royal Family appears poised to move forward. While 2025 may not bring headline-grabbing milestones, it offers an opportunity for stability and reconnection. As Bell puts it, “This year is about engaging with the British public and finding a rhythm again. They’ve weathered the storm—now it’s time to rebuild.”