In a stunning twist of royal rivalry, Prince William’s attempt to seize headlines on June 4, coinciding with Princess Lilibet’s birthday, spectacularly backfired. While the Prince of Wales aimed to overshadow his brother Prince Harry by appearing at an Army Air Corps event, the media spotlight quickly shifted as a viral video of Harry and Meghan dancing in anticipation of their daughter’s birth took center stage, dominating UK news coverage.

William’s visit, meant to underscore his new role as Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps—a position previously held by Harry—was marred by his awkward remarks about family dynamics that many interpreted as veiled digs at his estranged brother. As he engaged with soldiers, his comments about family being a “mixed bag” only served to amplify the ongoing tensions within the royal family.

Despite his efforts, which included flying a helicopter in a bid for attention, William’s public relations strategy crumbled. His appearance garnered a paltry 15,200 views on social media, starkly overshadowed by the staggering 38.9 million views for Meghan’s heartfelt video. Major publications, usually sympathetic to the royals, failed to feature William prominently, with headlines instead celebrating the Sus𝑠e𝑥es’ triumphant moment.

The backlash was swift and unforgiving. Critics lambasted William’s timing and approach, with many suggesting that his desperate attempts to upstage his brother were not only ill-conceived but also painfully transparent. As the UK media churned out stories about Meghan and Harry, it became clear that William’s efforts had not only flopped but had also highlighted his growing irrelevance in the royal narrative.

With the Sus𝑠e𝑥es basking in the glow of public affection, William is left to grapple with the fallout of his ill-fated publicity stunt. As the royal family dynamics continue to unfold, one question looms: can William ever escape the shadow of his brother?