Overview

• King Charles and Queen Camilla released a portrait showing William seated pensively on a rock wall to mark his 43rd birthday.
• The Princess of Wales followed with a second image featuring William interacting with family puppies to convey warmth and normalcy.
• Branding specialists say the polished outdoor portraits are intended to underscore William’s maturity and distinguish his public image from Prince Harry’s.
• Sources say William has stopped dwelling on his rift with Harry, shifting from hurt to indifference over the long-simmering feud.
• Observers note the portrait rollout underscores William’s advancing role as heir as King Charles’ cancer treatment continues and Kate Middleton recovers from her own diagnosis.