2024: A Year of Royal Transitions and Revelations

Jan 18, 2025 at 7:00 AM

In 2024, the British royal family faced significant milestones and personal challenges. From Meghan Markle's return to social media and her new ventures with Lemonada Media, to Prince George’s educational transition, the year was marked by pivotal moments. The King embarked on international trips despite health concerns, while Prince William adjusted his approach to royal duties. Meanwhile, the Duke of Sussex prepared for legal battles and a return to Canada. Additionally, the Princess Royal and Duchess of Edinburgh celebrated notable birthdays, highlighting the diverse activities within the monarchy.

Meghan Markle's re-emergence on Instagram in early January has sparked anticipation about her future projects. Her emotional post dedicated to her beagle, Guy, suggests that she may soon share more personal insights similar to her past endeavors on The Tig platform. Moreover, after parting ways with Spotify, Meghan joined forces with Lemonada Media in February, hinting at the relaunch of Archetypes and the introduction of a new podcast series. The exact nature of these projects remains under wraps, but they promise to offer fresh perspectives from the Duchess.

The coming year also marks significant transitions for the younger generation of royals. Prince George, turning 12, will graduate from Lambrook School and move on to a senior institution. Speculation is rife about whether he will follow in his father’s footsteps to Eton or join his siblings at Marlborough College. Both schools have strong ties to the royal family, making either choice noteworthy. As George prepares for this academic milestone, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis continue their own developmental journeys, with Charlotte reaching double digits and Louis turning seven.

King Charles III's calendar is filled with important engagements, both domestically and abroad. Despite undergoing cancer treatment, the monarch plans extensive travel, including a trip to Poland for the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation. He is also expected to visit Italy with Queen Camilla, meeting Pope Francis during Rome’s Jubilee celebrations. Later in the year, Charles may attend COP30 in Brazil. Domestically, he will celebrate four major anniversaries: 35 years of The King’s Foundation, 80 years since Victory in Europe Day, 50 years of The King’s Trust, and his 20th wedding anniversary with Camilla.

Prince William, reflecting on what he called “the hardest year of his life,” has shifted his focus towards charity work and reducing the ceremonial aspects of his role. This change aims to prioritize projects like Homewards, which has garnered mixed reactions. With fewer patronages compared to his father, William appears to be adopting a more streamlined and transparent approach to his royal duties. His candid tribute to Catherine on her birthday signifies a growing openness in communicating with the public.

Harry, Duke of Sussex, faces a busy start to the year with a court case against The Sun newspaper and a planned trip to Canada for the Invictus Games. These events bring him back into the spotlight, particularly as they evoke memories of the Sussexes' previous stay on Vancouver Island. While Meghan supports him in these endeavors, the couple's actions continue to draw attention and speculation from the media.

The year also brings personal celebrations for two lesser-known but hardworking members of the royal family. Princess Anne turns 75 on August 15, marking her long-standing dedication to various causes. Similarly, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, celebrates her 60th birthday on January 20, acknowledging her contributions without seeking the limelight. Together, these milestones reflect the diverse roles and achievements within the royal family.