**Prince William Prepares to Modernize the Monarchy, Set to Ditch Quirky Palace Customs**
*Published: Oct. 24, 2025, 7:45 p.m. ET*
Prince William is gearing up to reshape royal life as we know it. Sources close to the Prince of Wales have revealed to RadarOnline.com that he is already preparing to abandon some of the palace’s quirkiest customs when his time comes to take the throne.
From ornate robes and inherited estates to obscure ceremonial roles, the 43-year-old royal has made it clear that he intends to modernize the monarchy from top to bottom—a transformation that is expected to annoy courtiers and possibly lead to job losses within the royal household.
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### William’s Vision for a Modern Monarchy
His recent appearance on Apple TV+’s *The Reluctant Traveller* provided the clearest indication yet of his plans. Speaking with actor Eugene Levy, William said:
> “I think it’s safe to say that change is on my agenda. Change for good, and I embrace that. I don’t fear it—that’s the bit that excites me, the idea of being able to bring some change. Not overly radical, but changes that I think need to happen.”
A senior palace aide explained:
> “William’s vision is a monarchy fit for the modern age – less pomp, fewer outdated titles, and a stronger emphasis on purpose. He’s pragmatic about it. He knows the monarchy can only endure if it evolves and stays meaningful to people’s lives.”
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### Saying Goodbye to Excessive Regalia and Ceremonial Traditions
Among the first things expected to be scaled back are the elaborate outfits and regalia that have defined royal ceremonies for centuries. William, who favors chinos and open-neck shirts over plumed hats and ermine robes, reportedly finds the obsession with costume “ridiculous.”
One royal insider commented:
> “William can’t stand the more theatrical side of royal tradition. The plumes, the velvet, the heavy robes – he finds it all totally outdated and a bit camp. He’ll keep the dignity of the role, but he wants to strip away the excess and make it feel less like costume drama.”
Additionally, William plans to streamline the monarchy’s centuries-old roster of ceremonial roles, such as the Keeper of the Swans and the Yeoman of the Glass Pantry.
A palace source revealed:
> “Some of these ceremonial positions haven’t had a real purpose in centuries. William values history, but he’s practical. He wants the royal household to operate smoothly – not to preserve traditions just for show.”
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### Moving Away from Rigid Protocols
The prince is also understood to be uncomfortable with the rigid deference still expected around the royal family—bows, curtseys, and elaborate protocols many see as outdated.
A source close to the royal household shared:
> “William’s never been comfortable with all the bowing and curtsying. He’d rather someone greet him naturally than follow old protocols. He believes the monarchy works best when it feels approachable and human.”
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### Revising Pageantry and Royal Property Use
Even the Order of the Garter, Britain’s oldest and most elaborate ceremony, may face revision. William reportedly finds the sight of royals parading in velvet robes and carriages archaic and “medieval.”
One aide explained:
> “William’s focus is on celebrating achievement, not ceremony. He wants the spotlight on those receiving honors, not on the royals in elaborate outfits. The spectacle, to him, should serve a purpose—not exist just for tradition’s sake.”
Unlike his father, King Charles, who divides his time among several estates, William plans to simplify his royal residences. An insider said:
> “William isn’t drawn to the idea of rotating between royal estates. Windsor will be home base, with Sandringham and Balmoral reserved for short stays. He wants stability for his family, not a life spent packing and unpacking.”
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### Balancing Tradition with Modern Efficiency
Behind the scenes, William has already modernized the day-to-day running of royal business. He uses WhatsApp to communicate with Duchy of Cornwall staff and has cut down on unnecessary formalities.
A staff member said:
> “William’s not fussed about monograms or gold-embossed stationery. He’s practical—he wants systems that function smoothly, not trappings designed to impress.”
However, royal experts caution that while William’s instincts to slim down the monarchy to appeal to the public are sound, he must tread carefully.
An insider warned:
> “The monarchy endures because it evolves, but part of its power lies in the pageantry. William’s real test will be finding that balance—bringing it into the modern world without stripping away the wonder.”
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Prince William’s reign promises change, but also the challenge of honoring tradition while making the British monarchy more relevant in the 21st century.
https://radaronline.com/p/prince-william-to-axe-weird-royal-traditions-when-king/
