King and Prince William are 'well aware' of Mike and Zara Tindall's talent
King and Prince William are 'well aware' of Mike and Zara Tindall's talent
Dorothy Reddin Sat, October 17, 2026 at 11:26 PM UTC
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| Source: GETTY
Former England rugby star Mike Tindall is celebrating his 48th birthday today, and a former member of the royal household has offered his assessment of what lies ahead for the couple within the monarchy.
Grant Harrold, who served as a butler to King Charles from 2004 to 2011, told GB News exclusively that while Zara and Mike Tindall have no intention of becoming working royals, their contribution to the family remains significant.
Speaking on behalf of Smooth Spins, Mr Harrold outlined how the pair will continue to occupy an increasingly prominent position at royal gatherings, providing crucial support to senior members of the institution.
Mr Harrold was candid about the couple's position, stating: "They're not working royals and, to be frank, they don't want to be. They've got a good set-up at the moment, and I can't see that changing from an official point."
Despite this, the former butler emphasised that their contribution should not be underestimated.
"However, the work they do is still important, and it's great for the Royal Family," he said.
He added that the Tindalls present the monarchy in a favourable light, noting: "It shows the family in a really good light, and shows off a very 'normal' and modern side that we don't always get to see with the senior members of The Firm."
Mr Harrold also highlighted the couple's individual achievements, saying: "Zara and Mike are well-liked, and they have built great sporting careers of their own merit, and people really like that about them - and I think the royals would be daft not to make the most of this."
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The former butler pointed to their broad public appeal, particularly when engaging with audiences beyond traditional royal settings.
"Whenever they do interviews or celebrity appearances, they go down a storm, and the King and Prince William are well aware of this," he told the People's Channel.
Their ability to connect with the public in a relatable manner has clearly not gone unnoticed at the highest levels of the institution.
Although Mr Harrold does not foresee the Tindalls stepping into formal royal roles, he anticipates their visibility will grow in a more personal capacity.
Mike Tindall and Zara Tindall | Source: GETTY
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"While I don't think we see them step up in a professional royal sense, I think we will see more of them at family events and taking on a brighter spotlight on the more personal side of family events," he said.
The former butler reflected their particular importance to the Prince and Princess of Wales, describing them as "key support for Prince William and Catherine."
He predicted the couple would remain central figures at seasonal royal occasions, adding: "I imagine they will be a key part of Easter and Christmas celebrations for years to come."
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