By Karim Hammam
Prince William will guest-edit a special commemorative edition of Country Life magazine, offering rare insights into his public role and personal life, the publication announced Friday.
Six-month collaboration
The Prince of Wales spent the past six months working with the magazine’s editor-in-chief Mark Hedges and managing editor Paula Minchin to produce the 300-page issue, which will be published on Wednesday, November 11. William met with the editors at Windsor last month to review proofs and layout.
Personal reflections
The prince will appear on the cover and share personal details, including his enjoyment of occasional pub visits for a pint of cider with ice. Hedges previously described William as a “passionate countryman” when the guest editorship was announced in June.
Countryside connections
William inherited the Duchy of Cornwall, a landed estate spanning 128,000 acres across 19 counties, when his father became King. He also maintains a countryside retreat at Anmer Hall in Norfolk. A Kensington Palace spokesperson said the guest editorship reflects his long-standing passion for the countryside and its role in national life, culture, and wellbeing.
Royal tradition
William follows King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Princess Royal, who have all guest-edited Country Life. Camilla’s 2022 edition marking her 75th birthday became the magazine’s best-selling issue, featuring a cover photograph taken by the Princess of Wales. The King guest-edited twice, for his 65th and 70th birthdays, while the Princess Royal edited an edition for her 70th birthday in 2020.
Childhood ambitions
Last month, during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, William revealed he once dreamed of becoming a policeman or a DJ, adopting the moniker “DJ Xara” during a brief phase.
