Prince William's Power Play: Queen Camilla's Sister Fired as Palace Purge Begins
Prince William, the future king of England, has taken decisive action that has sent shockwaves through the royal family. In a move that some insiders describe as a clear signal to all who might challenge his authority, the 42-year-old Prince of Wales has removed Queen Camilla's sister, Annabel Elliot, from the royal payroll. This bold decision has raised eyebrows and stirred tensions within the palace, especially with his stepmother, Queen Camilla.
Annabel Elliot, who had served as the chief interior designer for the Duchy of Cornwall estates for two decades, was reportedly dismissed by William shortly after he assumed control of the estates following his father’s ascension to the throne in 2022. The Duchy of Cornwall, a vast portfolio of assets valued at over $1 billion, has traditionally provided income for the heir to the British throne. William’s swift action to remove Elliot, a longtime fixture in royal circles, marks a significant departure from the more cautious approach of his father, King Charles III.
A senior palace source described William's move as a calculated show of strength, designed to demonstrate that he will not tolerate any potential challenges or breaches of loyalty within the royal family. "William has become the royals’ enforcer," the source said. "He’s done taking nonsense from rogue relatives and is making it clear no one is safe from the ax. He has a stronger backbone than his father ever had."
The decision to oust Elliot, 75, has reportedly ignited a new feud between William and Queen Camilla, who was said to be blindsided by the move. Camilla, who is very close to her sister, is allegedly furious at what she perceives as a public humiliation. The dismissal has reopened old wounds, as William still harbors resentment towards Camilla for her role in the breakup of his parents’ marriage—a sentiment that, according to sources, has never fully healed.
"William knew this decision would upset Camilla, but he was willing to risk it," said the insider. "He’s consolidating his power and taking no prisoners. This is William's way of showing that he is in charge now, and even Camilla is not beyond his reach."
The implications of William's actions extend beyond his relationship with Camilla. Palace insiders suggest that this move is part of a broader strategy to solidify his control over the royal family and to send a stark warning to other members, particularly his estranged brother, Prince Harry, and sister-in-law, Meghan Markle. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have been vocal critics of the royal family since stepping back from their duties in 2020, are reportedly at the top of William’s list of concerns.
"Harry and Meghan should be very afraid," the source said. "William’s actions are a clear message that he will not tolerate any threats to the monarchy. The Sussexes have been served notice: they, and their titles, could be next on the chopping block."
Since leaving the UK, Harry and Meghan have aired their grievances with the royal family through various media channels, including Harry's memoir Spare, a Netflix docuseries, and several high-profile interviews. Their accusations of racism, cruelty, and neglect have deepened the rift between them and the rest of the royal family, particularly with William.
"William doesn’t speak to Harry and has no intention of ever letting him return to royal duties," said the palace insider. "He’s made up his mind, and he’s very stubborn once he’s decided something. He will show no mercy to anyone who threatens the monarchy."
The firing of Annabel Elliot is seen by some as the first major move in what could be a broader palace purge as William prepares for his future role as king. His actions have already sparked controversy and could lead to further tensions within the royal family, particularly as he continues to assert his authority.
Despite the potential fallout, William appears resolute in his determination to protect the monarchy and maintain control. His recent actions suggest that he is willing to make difficult decisions and confront anyone who might undermine his position—whether they are close family members or long-serving royal aides.