Prince William won the hearts of Americans but a greater challenge looms over future king - analysis by Cameron Walker

Prince William

Prince William is likely aware of his high-profile popularity on both sides of the Atlantic.

PA
Cameron Walker

By Cameron Walker


Published: 20/09/2023

- 10:09

The Prince of Wales undertook a carefully tailored programme of engagements and diplomatic meetings in New York

Prince William is likely aware of his high-profile popularity on both sides of the Atlantic.

Michael R Bloomberg dubbed him as the man who has "won over Americans of all stripes", citing a recent Gallop poll where the future King was named as the most popular public figure to unite Americans.


Those who have been lucky enough to meet the Prince over the last few days are keen to tell me how down to earth he is, despite his global fame.

Prince William was happy to tell the audience at the Earthshot Prize Innovation Summit about his secret exercise excursion on Tuesday morning, perhaps keen to show that he is a 'normal guy'.

Prince William

The Prince of Wales undertook a carefully tailored programme of engagements and diplomatic meetings in New York

PA

He revealed he went on a run in New York's Central ParkHe revealed he went on a run in New York's Central Park, and it appears he got away without a single paparazzi shot being taken - in complete contrast to the "near catastrophic car chase" endured by his brother and sister-in-law.

But, of course, Prince William is not ordinary.

He is the future King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and has been dubbed a global statesman.

His carefully tailored programme of engagements was smattered with diplomatic meetings.

The British government might see him as an asset to promote 'Brand Great Britain' in a post-Brexit world - meeting the son of Princess Diana could be more appealing than a dry politician.

Since becoming Heir Apparent, Prince William's workload has increased significantly, but this hasn't stopped him from continuing with his passions and legacy projects.

Almost all engagements in New York this week had an environmental theme - a great opportunity for Kensington Palace to have the Prince bond with young Americans.

The young people I spoke to said one of their biggest concerns was the environment.

On the other hand, sustainably isn't something traditional Republicans care much about.

Despite this, 60 per cent of them maintain a positive view of Prince William according to the recent Gallop poll.

So, why is this?

You could answer this question with The Earthshot Prize.

Founded by Prince William in 2020, it aims to find 50 solutions to repair our planet over the next decade.

"Hope and optimism" is how Prince William describes it, and he questioned 'doom & gloom' climate narratives on a stage in New York this week

Prince William

Since becoming Heir Apparent, Prince William's workload has increased significantly

PA

The Prince did, however, suggest a little 'doom and gloom' is good to maintain a sense of "urgency".

Speaking to those close to William, they believe the general population are far more likely to engage with positivity and optimism when it comes to tackling the effects of climate change.

It is clear this strategy is working with the younger generation because, wherever we followed Prince William, several 'royal super fans' were there to greet him.

The fans have created a strong online community of 'Will and Kate lovers' on social media.

As well as America, Prince William is the most popular royal in the United Kingdom.

Prince William

Prince William is the most popular royal in the United Kingdom.

PA

But with two trips to the USA in the space of a year, and zero trips to countries in the Commonwealth, how well is he perceived in nations where (one day) he will be Head of State?

Prince William and Princess Catherine's 2021 Caribbean tour was partly overshadowed by calls for an apology and reparations for the historic, transatlantic slave trade.

The Prince also received some criticism for not attending the Women's World Cup Final in Australia earlier this year, although it is thought this was partly due to environmental reasons.

I suspect it would not have gone down well if William flew halfway across the world for one football match.

The Prince of Wales has conquered the hearts of America, but a big challenge for him is coming up with a strategy to win over the hearts of several nations where he will one day rule as King.

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