Emily Flores
Royal life demands obedience or carries certain expectations. However, some have charted their own course, reshaping the monarchy’s future. These twenty figures broke boundaries in surprising ways that resonated far beyond palace walls. Let’s take a closer look at them.
Princess Diana Refused The Royal Oath
At her wedding in 1981, Diana left out the promise to “obey” Prince Charles—an unusual move that hinted at her independent spirit. She later raised her sons outside strict royal norms, broke the stigma by touching AIDS patients, and secretly helped write a revealing biography.
King Edward VIII Abdicated For Love
In 1936, Edward VIII stunned the world by leaving the British throne to marry Wallis Simpson, a twice-divorced American. The royal family skipped their wedding, and the couple spent most of their life in exile in France, far from the crown he gave up.
Prince Harry Stepped Back From Royal Duties
Harry and Meghan made headlines in 2020 by stepping down as senior royals and starting over in the U.S. They went on to sign major media deals and sit down with Oprah for a revealing, widely watched interview. Harry also created the Invictus Games for veterans.
Queen Letizia Was A Former News Anchor
Before becoming Spain’s queen consort, Letizia worked as a journalist and married then-Prince Felipe despite being divorced and a commoner. She became the first Spanish royal with a professional career, and she often chooses affordable fashion over designer labels to reflect modern values.
Princess Martha Louise Of Norway Gave Up Her Title
In 2002, Martha Louise stepped back from the “Her Royal Highness” title to follow a path in business and spirituality. What followed was running a center with a self-proclaimed shaman, writing about angels, and speaking openly on mental health and intuitive living in public talks.
Emperor Akihito Chose To Abdicate
Emperor Akihito stepped down due to age and health concerns in 2019, becoming Japan’s first emperor to abdicate in over two centuries. Throughout his reign, he worked to mend ties with World War II nations and famously married commoner Michiko despite resistance.
Princess Stephanie Of Monaco Joined The Circus
In the 2000s, when Stephanie began traveling with a Swiss circus, she turned away from royal life. She explored music and fashion and entered high-profile relationships with performers—choices that stirred headlines and challenged Monaco’s royal expectations.
Prince Carl Philip Of Sweden Married A Reality Star
Carl Philip defied expectations by marrying Sofia Hellqvist, who had appeared on reality TV and worked as a glamour model. Despite heavy press scrutiny, they remained firm and later co-founded an anti-bullying organization while continuing to represent the Swedish royal family.
King Willem-Alexander Worked As A Commercial Pilot
Even after becoming king in 2013, Willem-Alexander quietly flew KLM planes to stay grounded in civilian life. A trained historian, he also made headlines for marrying Maxima, who was born in Argentina and eventually became Queen of the Netherlands.
Queen Rania Of Jordan Uses Social Media Powerfully
Rania embraced digital platforms early and became one of the first royals to use social media to speak directly to global audiences. Before marrying King Abdullah II, she worked in marketing and continues to advocate for refugees, women’s rights, and education.
Princess Charlene Of Monaco Was An Olympic Swimmer
Before joining Monaco’s royal family, Charlene competed in the 2000 Sydney Olympics for South Africa. She met Prince Albert at a swimming event, and unlike many royals, she maintains a quiet public profile while championing global wellness and sports initiatives.
Crown Prince Hussein Of Jordan Gives His Own Input On Socials
Hussein stands out among royals by personally managing content on Instagram and TikTok. His posts include clips of military training and state visits. Young Jordanians admire his openness, and his academic background includes a Georgetown University degree in international affairs.
Prince Andrew Of Greece Became A Major General
Prince Andrew, father of Prince Philip, spent much of his life outside Greece after his exile. He became a major general and witnessed global conflicts firsthand. His views often put him at odds with royal norms during a time of sweeping political shifts.
Princess Ayako Of Japan Left Royalty To Marry A Commoner
In 2018, Ayako gave up her imperial title to marry Kei Moriya, a commoner, as required by Japanese law. She now leads a civilian life in Tokyo and continues her commitment to social work through roles in various nonprofit and cultural organizations.
Prince Joachim Of Denmark Relocated To France
Joachim moved his family to Paris after accepting a military diplomatic post. His decision came amid controversy over title changes affecting his children. Now, he represents Denmark abroad and shares royal duties with his French-born wife, who also holds official responsibilities.
Queen Elizabeth II Drove Ambulances In WWII
At 18, Elizabeth joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service and trained as a driver and mechanic. She became the first female royal to serve actively in the military. Her passion for automobiles remained strong throughout her life, shaping her unique wartime contribution.
King Jigme Of Bhutan Married A Commoner
King Jigme chose Jetsun Pema, then a college student, as his wife. Taking the throne in 2006 as the youngest reigning monarch, he champions Gross National Happiness over GDP and pushes for modern education and democratic reforms in Bhutan.
Princess Anne Chose Privacy Over Titles For Her Children
As for Anne, she refused royal titles for her son and daughter to protect their privacy and provide a normal upbringing. She’s known for her hardworking style and even competed in Olympic equestrian events. This woman also bravely fought off a kidnapping attempt in 1974.
Prince Pierre Casiraghi Became A Sailor And Entrepreneur
Pierre Casiraghi co-founded Team Malizia, competing in major sailing races like the Vendee Globe. Despite his royal lineage as Grace Kelly’s grandson, he prefers a low profile while actively supporting marine environmental projects and running entrepreneurial ventures.
King Charles III Spoke Out On Climate Before It Was Cool
Long before environmentalism became mainstream, Charles warned about climate change in the 1970s. He converted his Aston Martin to run on wine and cheese waste and promotes organic farming and sustainable design, despite critics who labeled him “too political.”