The caption read: “Happy 12th birthday to Prince George!”

Royal fans flooded the comments section with well-wishes for George, with many remarking that the young prince is his dad, Prince William’s doppelganger.

“He is his father’s clone!” One commenter wrote underneath the portrait.

As with previous birthdays, the public can expect the release of an official portrait of George. If history is a guide, the photograph will likely be taken by Catherine herself, a passionate and skilled amateur photographer. Indeed, one new photo of Prince George was released today to mark his special milestone. It was taken by the Princess of Wales earlier this month.

But beyond the public images, there’s a quieter, more personal celebration that unfolds within the family. Prince William and Princess Catherine are said to be deeply thoughtful when it comes to preparing gifts for their children, particularly for occasions like birthdays.

Rather than focusing on lavish or high-tech items, the couple emphasizes meaningful experiences. These may include handmade cards, homebaked cakes—often prepared late into the night by Catherine—and outings that reflect the children’s interests.

Although we know a lot about the second in line to the throne, William and Catherine, both 43, have worked hard to protect their children’s privacy. William once even refused to reveal what George received for his birthday. During a chat with a young prize winner named Zack K for the America’s Cup series just days after George’s birthday, William replied, “What did he get for his birthday? I’m not telling. He got too many things. He’s far too spoiled.”

Prince George has not been short of gifts over the years. Looking back to 2019, while William and Catherine have thrown parties for their eldest child with close family and friends, George received an extra special birthday treat that year.

His great-grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth—known for her frugal approach—gifted George a very sentimental present: a T-shirt printed with a portrait of her beloved dogs. The white top featuring the late monarch’s seven dogs was inspired by a painting that held a place of pride in her private quarters at Buckingham Palace.

In addition, George was just 8 months old when Pope Francis offered him an orb of lapis lazuli topped with a cross of St. Edward the Confessor. Weighing several pounds and made of solid stone, it was an impressive yet impractical gift.

His aunt Pippa Middleton reportedly gave her nephew a rather creepy christening gift, which cost an estimated £7,000. In 2019, for his sixth birthday, George celebrated in opulent fashion while on a family holiday to the Caribbean island of Mustique. The family stayed in a luxurious 27,000-a-week Villa Antilles owned by William’s friend Andrew Dunn. The stunning four-bedroom property—with an infinity pool, jacuzzi, private staff, and sea views—was a perfect backdrop for a royal birthday.

During that holiday, William and Catherine released an official image of George capturing the joy and excitement of the young prince.

This summer, the Prince and Princess of Wales have decided to spend much of their time below the radar. This decision comes as Catherine continues her preventative chemotherapy, necessitating a quieter and more restful holiday.

Prince George’s birthdays have always been celebrated in true royal style, often coinciding with family holidays. Princess Catherine continues this tradition by photographing George, Charlotte, and Louis in a series of joyful and heartwarming portraits.

These portraits are not just a testament to Catherine’s talent, but also a reflection of the family’s close bond and the carefree spirit of childhood. The images capture the laughter and love that define the Wales family, providing a sense of continuity and happiness in uncertain times.

The future king is taking after his parents by being a sensitive and highly responsible young boy at heart. As a Cancerian, George may be self-protective—especially about home and family—diving into his shell.

Both Princess Diana and Prince William were shy as young people, and yet both blossomed into their royal roles. As George grows, we may see him peeking out from his shell, indicating a highly responsible nature.

As for what George will be like as king when he ascends the throne after his father, royal astrologer Debbie predicted George will be a “heart rather than a head” person. He doesn’t have any planets in air signs, which suggests he will rely on his gut instincts rather than rationale.

“What a fine young man he’s become – handsome, poised, and full of quiet confidence,” another royal fan commented.

“Eyes like Grandpa Middleton, but the smile of his father,” a third added.

The Prince is celebrating his 12th birthday
“At 12, George is entering his final year at Lambrook before moving on to secondary school, so this will be a key year for him. But William and Kate have always prioritised giving their children as normal and private a childhood as possible, and that is not about to change. Prince George is second in line to the throne, however, so they will be gently showing him the ropes of royal life. We saw that when he joined his parents at the tea party for veterans at Buckingham Palace – it was a great opportunity to introduce George to royal engagements in a familiar place, while surrounded by his family,” says HELLO!’s Royal Editor Emily Nash.

“We’ve also seen how George is able to enjoy plenty of experiences that other children his age love – joining his dad to watch the football and going to concerts – even if he did get a VIP meet and greet with Taylor Swift!