Prince Richard, later the Duke of Gloucester, was the younger royal who married Birgitte, a non-aristocrat. While overshadowed by his elder brother Prince William, he sought a life beyond royal duties but answered the call of duty when his brother tragically died. Unlike other royal second siblings, he embraced his responsibilities without complaint.
At 80, Queen Elizabeth’s cousin remains one of the monarchy’s most active members, attending nearly 200 public events each year. Neither he nor his Danish wife Birgitte has publicly discussed their lives within the Royal Family, despite the potential for a compelling story.
Born fifth in line to the throne, Richard was one of George V’s nine grandchildren. His father, Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, was the brother of kings Edward VIII and George VI. His mother, Princess Alice, came from a grand Scottish family.
Educated at Eton, Richard is described as down-to-earth. Bernard Hunt, a friend from Magdalene College, Cambridge, recalls Richard arriving with a chauffeur but quickly blending in with other students. His father encouraged Richard to pursue his own path, which led him to study architecture and meet Birgitte in Cambridge.
After travelling the world, Richard joined an architectural firm in North London. He declined a Crown Estate villa for a modest flat in Camden to maintain privacy. His life changed dramatically when his elder brother died in a plane crash, forcing him to abandon his career and take up royal duties.
In 1974, after his father’s death, he became the Duke of Gloucester and fully embraced his royal role, associating with over 150 charities. He is known for his modesty, often travelling unrecognised and engaging warmly with the public. He even paid for a taxi fare out of pocket when a staff member faced issues.
Richard’s dedication and humility extend to his personal life. He and Birgitte, who celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2022, have three children and six grandchildren, none of whom are involved in royal duties. The couple moved to a smaller apartment in Kensington Palace in 2019.
The Duke’s modest lifestyle is reflected in his financial decisions, such as selling the family estate to pay off duties. His mother lived with him at Kensington Palace until her death in 2004.
King Charles has shown gratitude for Richard’s dedication, awarding him and Birgitte significant honours. Friends attribute Richard’s success to his lack of ego, noting that his quiet, radical steps have significantly influenced the modern monarchy. His story exemplifies how one can make the most of being a royal spare.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester?
Prince Richard is Queen Elizabeth’s cousin and one of the monarchy’s most hardworking members.
How did Prince Richard meet his wife, Birgitte?
He met Birgitte at a tea party in Cambridge while she was studying at a language school.
Why did Prince Richard have to leave his architecture career?
He left his career after his elder brother, the heir to the dukedom, tragically died in a plane crash.
What is notable about Prince Richard’s lifestyle?
He is known for his normality, modesty, and lack of ego, often traveling without fanfare.
How many public engagements does Prince Richard undertake annually?
Prince Richard undertakes close to 200 public engagements annually.