In the wake of Prince Harry’s departure from the UK, Mike Tindall has emerged as the brother figure that Prince William has been seeking.
As the husband of Zara Tindall and son-in-law of Princess Anne, Mike has become an integral part of the royal machinery since 2020.
According to a royal expert, the Prince of Wales has formed a close bond with Mike Tindall, as the former rugby player allows him to experience the fun activities that are now off-limits to him as the future king.
Prince William and former England rugby star Mike have developed a strong relationship, particularly since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle relocated to the United States.
Mike’s ability to break royal protocol by giving William a warm embrace and his lighthearted jokes, such as referring to his wife’s cousin as “One Pint Willie” due to his limited drinking abilities, have endeared him to the heir to the throne.
Ingrid Seward, a royal biographer and editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, explained to the Telegraph that Mike Tindall possesses the kind of sportsman camaraderie that resonates with William, who was known for his wild behavior in the past.
She further added that Mike becomes even funnier under the influence of alcohol and can be unabashedly outrageous.
While William is now more aware of his responsibilities and refrains from such behavior, he can live vicariously through Mike.
Another royal expert, Rosa Silverman, highlighted how Mike has filled the void in the family and become the brother figure that Prince William needs.
She recounted an incident from William’s 27th birthday, where Mike engaged in playful banter with him, referring to him as “Baldy,” to which William responded with a witty retort, “What’s it to you, fatty?”
It is evident that Mike and William share a daily banter that strengthens their bond.
Dickie Arbiter, the Palace Press Secretary, described both Tindall and William as down-to-earth individuals.
He stated that Mike manages to strike a balance between being somewhat indiscreet and charming, which endears him to everyone.
Even Mike’s participation in high-risk reality TV shows has turned out to be an asset for the royals, as the public perceives his approval of them as an indication of their likability.
Unlike Harry, Mike supports William without any ulterior motives or envy stemming from a desire for what William possesses.
The Tindall children have a close relationship with the Wales children, forged through growing up together and attending the same events, which the Harkle children cannot replicate.
This is due to the difference in parenting styles, with the Tindalls being well-adjusted, hands-on, and committed parents, resulting in happier and more well-behaved children.
Over the past four years, Mike has proven to be the brother figure that William never had, unlike the carefully crafted image of Harry as the carefree and jovial lad.
Mike’s authenticity shines through without the need for any PR strategies, as he genuinely embodies those qualities.
Furthermore, the bond between the families is evident in the interactions between the children.
Seeing Mia, Mike and Zara’s daughter, helping Charlotte with the flowers and holding hands with Louis demonstrates the strong connection between the two sets of children.
Mike Tindall is undoubtedly a valuable asset to the royal family, as he personifies a genuine family man.
His success predates his marriage to Zara, and he serves as a positive role model.
Through thick and thin, Mike will continue to stand by the royal family, providing unwavering support.