Prince William first sent the internet into a frenzy when he debuted his scruff in early August during a video with Kate Middleton congratulating Team Great Britain on their Olympic success. It was the first time in eight years we saw him with facial hair, and the people were here for it.
But, in true royal fashion, the beard didn’t last long. By the end of the month, when the Prince and Princess of Wales were spotted heading to church near Balmoral Castle, Prince William was clean-shaven again, sparking speculation that the scruff was just a summer fling.
Turns out, the beard is sticking around for now—and no one’s complaining. Fun fact: It’s a bit of a royal tradition for the men to grow facial hair when they’re “off-duty.” Prince Harry’s been all about that scruff for years, and even King Charles rocked facial hair back in the day.
So, will William’s trimmed-up look become his new thing? Only time (and maybe a few more royal appearances) will tell.
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