Duke of Sussex once dreamed of guiding his nephew through royal life with warmth and wisdom
As Prince George turns 12 on July 22, a poignant memory from Prince Harry has resurfaced, recalling the joy he once felt stepping into the role of uncle for the very first time.
In his memoir Spare, the Duke of Sussex captured the significance of that moment with simple words: “I was an uncle.” Reflecting on the day his brother William and Catherine welcomed their first child in 2013, Harry described George as “beautiful,” expressing deep pride in meeting the newborn future king.
More than just pride, Harry felt eager to take on a guiding role in George’s life. “I couldn’t wait to teach him about rugby and Rorke’s Drift, flying and corridor cricket,” he shared, adding playfully, “And maybe give him a few pointers about how to survive life in the fishbowl.”
Born at 4:24 p.m. at St Mary’s Hospital in London, George quickly became a cherished member of the royal family. Not long after his birth, Harry embraced his role with humour and heart. Speaking at a Sentebale event, he quipped, “When I saw him he was crying as all babies do, but it’s fantastic to have a new member of the family. I hope my brother knows how expensive my babysitting charges will be.”
Harry also reflected on what he saw as his responsibility: “To make sure he has a good upbringing, to keep him out of harm’s way and make sure he has fun. The rest of it I leave up to the parents.”
While relationships within the royal family may have shifted over the years, Prince George’s birthday quietly revives the memory of a once-close uncle eager to protect, inspire, and support his young nephew in the spotlight.
