Prince William is already laying the groundwork for his coronation, a normal practice for heirs as such events require years of preparation.
Whether King Charles abdicates or passes away, the ceremony would take place months after William’s accession, following the precedent set by Charles himself.
Sources suggest William envisions a coronation that is “relevant” and more modern than his father’s, though still rooted in tradition. Inspired by Charles’ decision to adjust elements of Queen Elizabeth II’s ceremony, William is reportedly considering changes that reflect evolving relationships with the Commonwealth. As one insider told The Times, “I don’t think he’ll be taking the filleting knife to it, but he will be checking it is sharp.”
One significant shift could be the removal of the traditional public oath of allegiance. Charles reduced the wording at his own coronation, but William is said to want to eliminate it entirely. Despite these updates, William remains committed to Westminster Abbey as the coronation venue, continuing a tradition that dates back to William the Conqueror in 1066.
Balancing Reform and Tradition
Though William is expected to introduce reforms, historians note he is “a reformer, not a radical.” His approach mirrors both Charles and the late Queen Elizabeth II, adapting what has worked in the past. Charles’ coronation featured a concert, a volunteering day, and a Bank Holiday — ideas William may also embrace.
Royal author Tina Brown has said Charles’ recent cancer diagnosis has brought William and Catherine “frightening proximity” to the throne sooner than expected, causing them “intense anxiety” as they had hoped for more years to focus on raising their children outside the spotlight.
Family Tensions and Guest List Speculation
The ongoing rift between William and Prince Harry casts uncertainty over whether Harry would be invited to the coronation. Royal commentator Roya Nikkah believes an invite is unlikely in the near future, saying, “I don’t think William would invite him. And I don’t think Harry would come.”
Titles and Roles
When he becomes king, William will choose his regnal name — likely King William V — though monarchs occasionally adopt different names. Historically, Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, and King George VI all chose names other than their given ones for various personal and political reasons.
Kate Middleton will be crowned alongside her husband as Queen Consort Catherine, a title that will likely be simplified to Queen Catherine over time. If Camilla is still living when William ascends the throne, she may take on a different title, though it’s thought “Queen Mother” would not be used out of respect for Princess Diana’s legacy.
With preparations underway, William’s coronation promises to blend modern relevance with royal tradition, aiming to unify the nation while honoring the institution’s deep history.