As an heir to the British throne, Prince William has been preparing to be king since his early childhood, just like his son Prince George. It was necessary for his entourage to ensure that he received the education required to prepare him for monarchy.
In his new biography titled “William and Catherine: The New Era of Monarchy, Behind the Scenes of History” published in late February 2026, author Russel Myers revealed that the late Queen Elizabeth II had started exerting some influence on William, even from his childhood.
A favoritism that wasn’t really favoritism?
“Facing Diana’s increasing influence on her children and Charles’ lack of influence at the time, the Queen subtly began to build her authority over the future King,” wrote Russel Myers in his book, excerpts of which were featured in an article published on March 30, 2026, on the Marie Claire UK website.
And he continued: “With Charles, she delicately introduced William to the notion of destiny, while making him understand that the family should dedicate themselves to the people and not serve their own interests.” This attention from the former monarch to Prince William may have been interpreted as favoritism by many, but it may not have been.
“Although this somewhat particular education could be seen as favoritism, and none of the other grandchildren received such attention, both the Queen and the Queen Mother (Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, mother of Elizabeth II) were determined to instill in William the essential tools for his future as monarch,” explained Russel Myers in his autobiography.
An attention that caused tensions between Prince William and Prince Harry?
In his book, the royal expert suggests that this attention given by Elizabeth II and Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon may have caused some tensions between Prince William and his brother, Prince Harry. “The Queen Mother, in particular, cherished William, sending him small gifts and words of encouragement over the years, and became a major influence in William’s conception of his destiny.”
And he continued: “During family gatherings, the Queen Mother insisted that William sit beside her, reinforcing his position as the heir and planting the seeds of a tacit difference between him and Harry.” While it is impossible to know if Prince William was the favored grandson of the late Queen, this attention can be interpreted as a simple desire to ensure that the British crown would be in good hands after her death.
