1 Royal Was Dubbed the ‘Balcony Enforcer’ as Family Reveals ‘Strict’ Rules for Balcony Appearances

The royal family’s balcony appearances are few and far between, but when they do gather outside of Buckingham Palace, thousands of people gather as well just to see them. It’s made for some of the family’s most iconic photos — especially when the young kids join, too, because their actions are always a bit unpredictable (we’re looking at you, Prince Louis).

Recently, though, one royal family member revealed that another one has been dubbed the “balcony enforcer” for ensuring strict rules are followed while the family makes those important public appearances.

Princess Anne has been dubbed the ‘balcony enforcer’

Peter Phillips, Princess Anne’s son, once recalled that his mother took things quite seriously while the royals were on the balcony. She was referred to as the “balcony enforcer” and would often reaffirm rules before the kids would take the biggest stage of their lives: appearing on the Buckingham Palace Balcony.

“You then get a clip round the ear and say right, ‘behave yourself, you know, we’re going out on the balcony,’” Phillips said during a documentary made for his mom’s 70th birthday, according to Express. “Don’t pick your nose and you know, don’t yawn.”

Zara Tindall agreed with the rules and also seemingly thought it was a way of strengthening her bond with the other kids, primarily her cousins Prince William and Prince Harry.

Princess Anne has continued to leave a lasting mark on the royal children; she has taken Princess Charlotte under her wing and is already teaching her the ropes of how to politely be a royal.

Princess Anne has always stepped up for the royal family

Anne is a royal who flies under the radar because she doesn’t have the same notoriety as her brother, King Charles, or her nephews, Prince William and Prince Harry. While she will never take the throne, Anne has constantly proven that she is one of the real ones when it comes to supporting the royal family.

In 2023, Anne made more official royal appearances than any other working member — including Charles and William. And earlier this year, when Charles and Kate Middleton were both taking time away from the spotlight for health reasons, Anne continued to step up and step in, making sure she completed as many royal engagements as possible. As the queen’s oldest daughter, the Princess Royal has solidified herself as a key member of the royal family — even if it once meant being a little strict on the royal balcony.