Princess Beatrice turns 33 today and, despite her growing presence within the royal family, a former butler has explained why she is unlikely to be made a senior working royal
09:00, 08 Aug 2025Updated 10:35, 08 Aug 2025
Prince William, Prince of Wales and Princess Beatrice of York(Image: WireImage)
As Princess Beatrice celebrates her 37th birthday today, August 8, a former royal butler has shed light on why — despite her growing popularity and increasing role within the Royal Family — she is unlikely to become a senior working royal during Prince William’s reign.
Grant Harrold, who served King Charles at Highgrove from 2004 to 2011, suggests that while the monarch is expected to make a heartfelt gesture for his niece’s birthday, her position within the monarchy is not likely to undergo significant changes.
Speaking on behalf of Fruity King, Harrold highlighted that Princess Beatrice is highly respected by the entire Royal Family, especially by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
“The King will be eager to celebrate Princess Beatrice,” he revealed.
“King Charles and Queen Camilla maintain a close relationship with both Beatrice and Eugenie. Beatrice is well-regarded throughout the Royal Family and frequently steps in to assist. Although the celebrations may be private, a celebration is anticipated, reflecting her discreet yet valued contribution to the Firm,” reports the Mirror.
Princess Beatrice(Image: PA)
Despite not being a full-time working royal, Beatrice has assumed more responsibilities over time and continues to provide support when needed — all while pursuing a separate career as a strategist at tech firm Afiniti.
Her knack for juggling royal responsibilities with her career has led some to hail her as the Firm’s “secret weapon”. However, Harrold believes Prince William is unlikely to bestow upon her a more formal royal role for two principal reasons.
“Beatrice has her own career, so I don’t see William making her a senior member of the working royals,” he said.
“They pull ranks when they need the support, and she’s been known to step up. But she has a job and does her own thing. She’s still such a valued member of the family.”
Trooping The Colour on June 9, 2018(Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
Harrold also commended Beatrice for her tactful approach to the reported rift between Prince William and Prince Harry.
“She gets on with William, as well as Harry,” Harrold remarked.
“I think she’s been very diplomatic with the brothers and their feud. She’ll have been careful to maintain a relationship with both.”
Regarding her birthday celebrations, Harrold predicts they will be understated yet heartfelt.
“I don’t see any big celebrations, as it’s not a major birthday,” he commented.
“I think Beatrice will opt for a low-key and intimate celebration with warm wishes from the entire family, and a thoughtful present from King Charles. He’s not one for giving cash, so I reckon he would gift Beatrice a piece of jewellery.”