Summary (tl;dr)

New YouGov data reveals a significant shift in UK royal family approval ratings, with Princess Anne now the most popular working royal, surpassing Prince William and Kate, the Princess of Wales, whose popularity has declined. This comes amidst varied public engagements by other royals and ongoing discussions about the monarchy's future and transparency.

Essential Background

The British Royal Family, a constitutional monarchy, operates with public support being crucial for its long-term viability, despite members not facing elections. Historically, figures like Queen Elizabeth II and more recently, Prince William and Kate, the Princess of Wales, have consistently held high approval ratings, embodying the modern face of the monarchy. Over time, there has been a growing public expectation for transparency and accountability from the institution. King Charles III's reign has seen a focus on a "slimmed-down monarchy," prompting debates about the roles and public perception of various family members.

The Full Story

Recent YouGov Ratings data for the third quarter of 2026, released in October, shows Princess Anne has become Britain's most popular royal, achieving a net approval rating of +60. This marks a notable shift as Prince William and Kate, the Princess of Wales, who typically topped such surveys, saw their net approval dip to +50 and +56 respectively. Princess Anne, known for her dedication to royal duties and a no-nonsense approach, has seen her positive ratings climb. Meanwhile, King Charles III's approval also experienced a boost, increasing to a net rating of +31. The data also indicates that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's UK popularity remains low, despite a slight uptick following their return to Britain and planned public engagements. This period has also seen King Charles disclose his tax bill and reportedly cover a £1.5 million bill for his brother, Prince Andrew, further fueling public interest in royal finances.

Why It Matters

These shifts in approval ratings are significant because public sentiment is vital for the monarchy's enduring relevance and legitimacy in a modern society. While royals are not subject to elections, strong public support underpins the institution's ability to maintain its legacy and carry out its ceremonial and charitable functions. Princess Anne's rise indicates continued affection for hard-working royals beyond the direct line of succession, influencing discussions on the "slimmed-down monarchy" and potentially shaping future roles. The declining popularity of the Prince and Princess of Wales, traditional favorites, could prompt introspection within the institution regarding their public image and engagement strategies. Furthermore, the public's scrutiny of royal finances, highlighted by recent disclosures and reports, reflects a growing demand for transparency and accountability, crucial for maintaining trust.

Geographic Location

• United Kingdom (nationwide release of royal family approval ratings data)
• Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England (Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's public engagements)
• Belfast, Northern Ireland (Prince William and Kate's joint appearance)
• Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Wales (King Charles and Queen Camilla's ceremonial Senedd opening)
• Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, England (State Visit by the Sultan of Oman)