One source described William as “King in all but name now,” while another added: “The change of reign is happening in real time, whether they admit it or not.”
Buckingham Palace: A Future Without a Monarch?
Another major change could involve Buckingham Palace itself. Now that William and Kate have settled permanently into the eight-bedroom Forest Lodge, the Palace may never again serve as a royal residence. Instead, it could become the monarchy’s headquarters—an elaborate events and administrative center filled with priceless artwork but no full-time royals.
Even when William and Kate ultimately become King and Queen, they reportedly have no intention of moving into the Palace. The idea of relocating their children to the UK’s busiest tourist attraction offers little appeal.
Sykes reports that at school and within family settings, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis never use their titles. These titles could be “informally ‘parked’ until they become adults,” giving them the choice between royal duty or living as private citizens.