Prince George’s sweet Christmas moments: Who really filled Prince Harry’s shoes

Prince William and Princess Kate’s three children have grown up witnessing ongoing feud with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. But when it comes to family gatherings, especially Christmas at Sandringham House, their joyful moments never go to waste.

In particular, Prince George seems to have found a special bond with his uncle figure, Zara Tindall’s husband, Mike Tindall, one that body language experts say has “more than filled” the gap left by Harry’s absence.

Here are the sweetest ways Mike Tindall has stepped in as George’s beloved 'fun uncle':

1. Christmas magic at Sandringham

Christmas 2023 brought a rare glimpse of royal generations together, and fans were quick to spot a heartwarming moment between George and Mike.

 Photographs captured Mike placing his arm around George’s shoulders, treating him with warmth that didn’t go unnoticed.

Body language expert Judi James explained, “George’s original ‘fun uncle’ and adult playmate did that infamous bolt to the US, leaving a huge Harry-shaped gap in the young boy’s life that Mike has more than filled.”

2. A role model with similar traits to Harry

Experts say Mike shares a number of qualities with Prince Harry. 

In this regard, Judi James noted, “Mike is the fun uncle everyone needs, but in the case of Prince George, whose destiny is all about duty and responsible behavior, Mike’s presence in his life is completely invaluable.”

3. Affection beyond duty

While George and his siblings are nudged toward polished handshakes and smiles during royal appearances, Mike takes a different approach. 

According to Judi, Mike just took over the action by grabbing George for a stunning and very touchingly hearty partial hug and kissing him on the side of the head.

4. Treating George like his own

Judi also emphasised that Mike’s bond with George reflects genuine care. “It showed Mike will probably always treat George as he would treat his own children,” she explained.

For the future king, who faces immense expectations from an early age, this kind of love and normalcy can be invaluable.

5. The uncle every child needs

At a time when family rifts have left visible gaps, Mike Tindall has become the figure of joy and laughter for George. Judi summed it up perfectly, “Mike is the fun uncle everyone needs… completely invaluable.”