Future king tipped to serve as best man for close cousin amid royal celebrations
Prince William could be preparing for a meaningful new role within the royal family—as best man at the upcoming wedding of his cousin Peter Phillips to NHS paediatrician Harriet Sperling.
The couple’s engagement, announced exclusively to HELLO! last week, has sparked speculation over which senior royals will take part in the ceremony. Royal watchers are particularly focused on the Prince of Wales, given his longstanding bond with Peter, the eldest son of Princess Anne.
Peter and William have shared a close relationship since childhood, often described as more like brothers than cousins. “Peter has always been viewed as a supportive older brother figure to Prince William,” HELLO!’s royal correspondent Danielle Stacey explained. “They’ve had a very close relationship throughout their lives.”
Peter has frequently supported William at charity polo matches and was seen sharing a warm moment with Catherine, Princess of Wales, at an event last year. In a previous interview, Peter praised William and Catherine as a “fantastic team.”
According to royal editor Emily Nash, it wouldn’t be surprising if William is asked to stand beside Peter on his big day. “Peter is close not just to King Charles, but particularly to William and Harry,” Nash said. “It would certainly be fitting and emotional for Peter to have William standing alongside him.”
Whether as best man or groomsman, Prince William’s presence at the ceremony is likely to carry symbolic weight—offering a moment of unity and celebration amid the ever-evolving dynamics within the royal family.
