As Princess Anne to celebrate her 75th birthday , she’s the name on everybody’s lips this week.
So much so, a clip from last year of one of her rare outings with Queen Camilla has resurfaced.
The footage shows a “telling” exchange between the two senior royals. The clip seems to depict what their relationship is like since King Charles ascended the throne.
And it seems, according to experts, Camilla may be struggling with her status…
‘Revealing’ moment between Princess Anne and Queen Camilla
The moment happened back in November 2024, as the sisters-in-law attended a joint engagement at the University of London’s Foundation Day.
Anne, as Chancellor of the University of London, awarded Camilla with an honorary doctorate of literature certificate.
The honour was given to the monarch’s wife for her ongoing efforts in promoting literature in the UK, including her work for The Queen’s Reading Room, an organisation that provides free literary education.
The duo arrived at the campus together and were escorted to the Senate House, in time for the ceremony.
As they were about to enter the building, seemingly to show her respect for Anne, Camilla paused before slowing down, so Anne could move ahead of her.
Evidently, Anne politely declined, smiled and ensured Camilla went in front – likely to uphold royal protocol.
Despite Anne being of royal blood and the only daughter of the late Queen Elizabeth II, she still ranks below King Charles’ wife, as Camilla is queen consort.
Princess Anne’s behaviour with Queen Camilla shows her ‘true feelings’
And according to King Charles’ former butler Grant Harrold, Anne’s behaviour proves just how committed she is to following the strict rules of the monarchy.
“Princess Anne is quite strict with protocol and the rules, just like her mother the late queen was. As Queen, Camilla outranks her – even though Anne was born into the royal family. As she’s married to the king, she ranks higher.
‘Camilla gets on with her sister-in-law’
“Camilla gets on with her sister-in-law really well, they’re very close and good friends. She’s just been polite and said, ‘You go first.’ As you would with friends. But Anne has politely refused, getting Camilla to follow the correct protocol.
“Camilla is just being polite, but she does have to follow the rules and tradition. It gives you a good idea of just how strict these rules are.”
Body language expert Darren Stanton also chimed in on how “telling” Camilla’s behaviour was and how it may give a glimpse into her adjusting to her status.
Queen Camilla’s ‘telling’ behaviour
Speaking on behalf of Fruity King, he exclusively detailed to us: “From a body language perspective, Camilla’s behaviour here is quite telling. Even though she is now Queen, she shows clear respect for her place in the royal hierarchy.
“Particularly toward Princess Anne. The way she walks slightly behind Anne is significant, while not a strict protocol requirement, it reflects deference and acknowledgement of Anne’s seniority within the family dynamic.
“This is in stark contrast to the famous incident a few years ago when Donald Trump walked in front of the late queen, which was widely viewed as a breach of royal etiquette. Camilla’s choice to hold back appears intentional, a silent gesture of respect rather than a matter of obligation.
Princess Anne’s display of ‘authority’
“The difference in their walking styles is also revealing. Princess Anne walks with her hands clasped behind her back, a classic display of confidence and authority. This posture, often seen in figures such as police officers or military personnel, communicates self-assurance and command.
“Camilla, by contrast, keeps her hands in front of her body, which is a more guarded and subtly submissive gesture. Despite these non-verbal cues, the two women clearly get along. Both have a good sense of humour, and their rapport is evident in their expressions.
“Their eye contact is warm and genuine, crow’s feet forming at the eyes, smiles engaging both mouth and eyes, signs of authentic enjoyment in each other’s company. The same openness is visible in their interactions with dignitaries, showing that they were fully engaged and comfortable in the setting.
“In short, Camilla’s decision to hang back was not about formal protocol but rather about interpersonal respect. Her body language, slightly more reserved stance, forward hand position, and deferential positioning, subtly reinforces that message, even as her expressions make it clear she feels at ease and connected in the moment.”