Prince George is officially 12!
To mark the special day, Prince William and Kate Middleton released a new portrait of their eldest son, continuing a royal tradition of sharing birthday photos of their children.
Captured by photographer Josh Shinner earlier this year in Norfolk, the image shows a smiling George leaning on a wooden fence, dressed in a blue-and-white checked shirt with a brown fleece gilet. The birthday boy bears a striking resemblance to his father in the photo.
“Happy 12th Birthday to Prince George! 🎂 📸 @joshshinner,” read the caption from the Prince and Princess of Wales’ official account.
Royal Fans Celebrate Prince George’s Birthday
Fans flooded social media with birthday wishes and nostalgic reactions.
“Happy 12th Birthday to Prince George! 🎂 It feels like just yesterday he was a toddler 🥺💙,” one wrote.
“Happiest birthdays, Sweet Prince,” another added.
A third admirer commented, “What a fine young man he’s become — handsome, poised, and full of quiet confidence. Such a lovely photo with that charming smile.”
A Milestone Before the Teenage Years
This birthday marks a significant moment for the future king — it’s his last year before officially entering his teenage years in 2026. George, second in line to the throne, is spending the day privately with his family, in keeping with past traditions.
The young royal was most recently seen at Wimbledon, where he attended the men’s singles final from the front row of the Royal Box alongside his parents and sister Princess Charlotte. Dressed smartly in a suit and tie, George impressed spectators with his composed demeanor.
Sports Enthusiast Like His Parents
Prince George has inherited his parents’ love for sports. He’s a loyal Aston Villa fan and often accompanies Prince William to football matches. At Wimbledon, when doubles champion Julian Cash asked about his tennis skills, George modestly replied, “I’m alright.”
What’s Next for Prince George?
George is currently completing his final year at Lambrook School in Windsor, where Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis also study. But big changes lie ahead — once he turns 13, he is expected to follow in Prince William’s footsteps and enroll at the prestigious Eton College, an all-boys boarding school.
As Prince George prepares to take on his teenage years, royal watchers around the world will no doubt be keeping a close eye on his journey.
