Prince William marked his 43rd birthday with an affectionate and playful image shared by Kensington Palace a portrait captured by the Princess of Wales featuring the prince surrounded by a new generation of the family’s beloved pets.
Taken earlier this month in Windsor, the photo shows Prince William with their Cocker Spaniel, Orla, and three of her four recently-born puppies. The relaxed snapshot reveals a more informal side of the prince, dressed casually in jeans and trainers, as the puppies clamber affectionately around him. The family’s birthday message, signed “with love” by Catherine and children George, Charlotte, Louis — along with “the puppies” and a paw print emoji added a charming touch to the celebration.
This delightful image stands in contrast to Prince William’s recent high-profile appearances, such as Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter procession. He has also been actively engaged in his environmental initiative, the Earthshot Prize, visiting a project that produces sustainable dye to reduce harmful chemicals in the fashion industry.
Another photo released to mark his birthday, from the Royal Family’s official account, shows the Prince of Wales sitting on a stone wall during a visit in May to the Duchy of Cornwall — land he inherited from his father, King Charles III.
Orla, the family dog, was gifted to the royal couple by Catherine’s brother James Middleton in 2020 following the death of their previous dog, Lupo. In May, Orla gave birth to four puppies, adding joy to the royal household.
Princess Catherine has made limited public appearances this year following her cancer diagnosis and is reportedly finding a balance in returning to royal duties. On Friday, she shared a heartfelt message supporting children’s hospices, highlighting their role in helping families in deeply emotional times.
As Prince William celebrated his midsummer birthday, King Charles sent a special message to researchers in Antarctica enduring the winter solstice, praising their vital work on climate change — a fitting parallel to his son’s ongoing environmental advocacy.
This birthday, framed by love, renewal, and purpose, captured a personal yet poignant chapter in the life of the future king.
