As Prince George's 12th birthday is around the corner (July 22), royal fans have observed a noticeable shift in his public demeanour, noting a more serious expression during recent appearances.
The young royal has taken on a more visible role alongside his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, at high-profile events such as Trooping the Colour and the VE Day commemorations.
During the VE Day ceremonies held in May, George began stepping into his royal role by joining hs parents, Prince William and Princess Kate, at a Buckingham Palace tea party honouring Second World veterans.
According to veteran royal commentator Jennie Bond, the weight of George's future as King may already be settling on his shoulders.
'He tends to look rather serious when he's on parade these days.'
She suggested that compared to his younger siblings, George appears more introspective.
'One day you will be taking on the huge role that you are now watching your grandfather perform, Bond explained to The Mirror.
Now second in line to the throne, Prince George has reached an age where 'the reality of his destiny has begun to hit home,' according to the royal expert.
'George is not, by any means, always a serious little chap,'Bond emphasised.
'When he's with his dad at a football match, or fooling around with his siblings and his father, he has a wonderful smile on his face, and seems happy and relaxed,' she said.
It comes after the Prince and Princess of Wales appear to have settled on Eton as their choice for their eldest son.