Royal Expert Reveals Princess Anne and Queen Camilla Share "Secrets" and "History" Despite Queen's Role Being "Tricky'" for Anne
The royal sisters-in-law share one major thing in common.
Queen Camilla and Princess Anne delighted royal watchers when they stepped out for a rare joint engagement on Nov. 20, and following the event, one royal expert has shared some insight on the "mutual respect"—and surprising "history"—the royal sisters-in-law share.
Last week, Princess Anne, who serves as chancellor for the University of London, presented The Queen with an honorary doctorate of literature from the school. Former BBC royal reporter Jennie Bond told OK! that while it was "an unusual moment for both women," Camilla "has earned her sister-in-law's admiration, just as she has won the respect of many people in the country."
Continuing that she thought the moment "showed their mutual respect" for each other, Bond noted that "Camilla and Anne have known each other for a very long time."
"You have to remember that Camilla was married to Andrew Parker Bowles, who was once a boyfriend of the princess," the royal expert shared. "They share a lot of history and probably a lot of secrets."
If you're a fan of The Crown, you might remember from season 3 that Princess Anne dated Parker Bowles in the early 1970s, the same time when The King (then Prince Charles) was dating Camilla. However, Anne's relationship with Mr. Parker Bowles was never said to be serious, and they remain friends even today (Andrew Parker Bowles is even Princess Anne's daughter, Zara's, godfather).
Having known each other for so many years, it's no wonder that the royal duo have plenty to discuss. But when it comes to her sister-in-law being Queen, Bond said the Princess Royal likely had an adjustment period .
"It may have been quite tricky for both of them to adjust to the new situation with Camilla becoming the senior royal and, indeed, taking on the role of Anne's beloved mother," the former royal reporter said.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Although it might have taken a while to get used to her sister-in-law's new role, Bond noted that the hardworking Princess Royal understands "what a tremendous support Camilla is to Charles."
"The King is certainly lucky to have two strong women either side of him, supporting him in his work and caring deeply about his welfare," she added.
Kristin Contino is Marie Claire's Senior Royal and Celebrity editor. She's been covering royalty since 2018—including major moments such as the Platinum Jubilee, Queen Elizabeth II’s death and King Charles III's coronation—and places a particular focus on the British Royal Family's style and what it means.
Prior to working at Marie Claire, she wrote about celebrity and royal fashion at Page Six Style and covered royalty from around the world as chief reporter at Royal Central. Kristin has provided expert commentary for outlets including the BBC, Sky News, US Weekly, the Today Show and many others.
Kristin is also the published author of two novels, “The Legacy of Us” and “A House Full of Windsor.” She's passionate about travel, history, horses, and learning everything she can about her favorite city in the world, London.
-
Hailey Bieber Wants to Give You Frosted Lips for Christmas
Her limited-edition launch marks Rhode's first collaboration with influencer Matilda Djerf.
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
Zendaya Pre-Games the Red Carpet in Birkenstocks and a Louis Vuitton Bag
The definition of high-low fashion.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Holiday Glam Is Easier (and More Affordable) Than You Think
Here's proof.
By Aniyah Morinia Published
-
The Royal Family's Christmas Rules Range From Funny to Outrageous
"Don't suggest playing Monopoly, it's banned!"
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Camilla's Son Says He Might Join the Royal Family For Christmas, Despite Feud Rumors
It was previously reported that Prince William would snub Christmas if Tom Parker Bowles attended.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Camilla Holds Emotional Meeting With Domestic Abuse Survivors: "You're Virtually the Same Age as My Granddaughters"
The Queen said she would campaign for change until she's "able to no more."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
King Charles Reveals His Emotional Christmas Gift for Queen Camilla
It's royally sweet.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Queen Camilla Has Reportedly Been "Left Heartbroken" and "Upset" by Recent Events
From a persistent illness to the death of beloved family member.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why the Royal Family Is Preparing For a Christmas of "Chaos"
The royals will be "extremely busy with extra family guests."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Queen Camilla Met up With a Spice Girl at Buckingham Palace
Friendship never ends!
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Queen Camilla Forced to Back Out of Star-Studded Royal Event Due to "Lingering" Illness
Get well soon, Your Majesty.
By Kristin Contino Published