Spoiler alert: It’s not Harry.
In a plot twist no one saw coming (but everyone kinda expected), King Charles and Prince William will not be making the pilgrimage to Vatican City to witness the swearing-in of Pope Leo XIV — aka the 267th spiritual CEO of the Catholic Church, and the first Pope to bring baseball and BBQ energy to the papacy (he’s American, guys!).
Instead, the Royal Family is sending their most reliable plus-one: Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh. Yes, he’s the one who’s been quietly doing his job while the rest of the family has been stealing headlines with Netflix deals and spare memoirs.
So… Why Aren’t Charles or Wills Going?
Tradition, darling. British monarchs don’t typically RSVP “Yes” to papal parties. Instead, they send someone royal-adjacent to wave politely, nod sagely, and avoid knocking over any incense burners. King Charles is sticking to the script, proving once again that “monarchy but make it consistent” is his personal brand.
Don’t worry though — he did send his thoughts and prayers, which is the aristocratic version of liking someone’s Instagram post. According to Buckingham Palace, His Majesty and Queen Camilla sent Pope Leo a lovely handwritten note (probably in cursive, on the good stationery) congratulating him on the promotion.
The Man of the Hour: Prince Edward
At 61, Prince Edward is stepping up to the international stage — likely packing a tasteful pocket square and a cheat sheet of papal protocol. He’ll be representing his big bro at the May 18 ceremony in St. Peter’s Square, where he will presumably avoid tripping on red carpets and confusing cardinals for caterers.
This isn’t Edward’s first rodeo. He became the Duke of Edinburgh last year and has since been the family’s go-to guy for important but less paparazzi-covered events. Vatican ceremony? He’s there. Ribbon-cutting at a cheese museum? You bet.
Meanwhile, Let’s Not Forget the Funerals (So Many Funerals)
Fun fact: Prince William did go to Pope Francis’ funeral back in April. As heir to the throne, it’s part of the job — show up, wear black, try not to cry on camera. Charles also did his heirly duty back in 2005 when he attended Pope John Paul II’s funeral — so committed, he even postponed his wedding to Camilla. That’s dedication and a potential rom-com plot.
And in case you were wondering: Queen Elizabeth never attended a pope’s funeral. Not once. Not even when four of them died on her watch. Instead, she sent various royals, likely with notes that said “So sorry, terribly busy reigning.”
The Palace Tribute: Deep Feelings, Royal Fonts
When Pope Francis passed away on April 21, King Charles released a heartfelt message, essentially saying, “We’re sad, but also, what a guy!” He praised the Pope’s compassion, his climate advocacy, and the fact that he still managed to send Easter greetings despite being very, very unwell.
Charles even got a little sentimental, recalling his last visit with Pope Francis just days before his passing. “We were greatly moved,” said the King, probably while sipping tea and gazing out a palace window, “to have seen him one last time.”
TL;DR?
- King Charles and Prince William: Not attending Pope Leo XIV’s big day.
- Prince Edward: Suiting up, showing up, and hopefully not spilling communion wine.
- Queen Elizabeth: Still undefeated in the “Send Someone Else” category.
- The Royals: Keeping traditions alive, one polite decline at a time.
