The youngest member of the Royal Family has been winning over the masses for a year now, and to commemorate his upcoming birthday, a new official portrait of Prince George has been released. In the new photo, the prince is standing on his own with his arms raised above his head as though poised to take a scepter and crown and rule his kingdom. He certainly looks like he's on a mission in the picture, and perhaps that mission is to govern his land. After all, he is third in line to the throne.
The arms-up pose is a familiar one to Prince George. He looks not unlike an music conductor; although instead of leading an orchestra, he looks ready to lead his country. He's exhibited this pose in everything from his royal christening portrait to this new picture. It's almost as if he's been practicing ruling over his peasants before he even reaches his first birthday.
He's a pretty charismatic baby, and his charm is basically saving the Royal Family, so perhaps when Queen Elizabeth II steps down, the crown should simply skip over Prince Charles and Prince William and go straight to the baby of the family. He may be young, but here are eight examples of times he's proven he's ready to ascend the throne.
WHEN HE WAS ON A MISSION
The new official portrait shows him walking like it's nothing. (Well, sort of...) They just grow up and rule countries so fast, don't they?
WHEN HE WAS SO EXCITED TO MEET HIS PEOPLE
A true king knows that a good first impression is everything.
WHEN HE WANTED TO SHOUT HIS KINGLINESS FROM THE ROOFTOPS
Having pride in your role is essential.
WHEN HE WAS JUST AS FASHION CONSCIOUS AS THE QUEEN
The Queen of England has a lot of opinions on Kate Middleton's wardrobe, and Prince George has the same for his nanny. A good ruler never underestimates the importance of a polished outfit.
WHEN HE TRIES TO MAKE HIS SUBJECTS FEEL BETTER
Every good king looks out for the well being of his people.
WHEN HE CAME IN READY TO DO BUSINESS
Always there to defend his people.
WHEN HE UNDERSTOOD THAT HE IS STILL A ROYAL
At the end of the day though, there is a monarchy. To be an effective ruler, Prince George must show he is at the top of that chain.
WHEN HE IS NOT IMPRESSED
A good leader has a no nonsense face, and Prince George learned from the best of them:
With all of these examples, I think it's clear that he's ready to take his rightful seat on the throne. It's Kate Middleton approved.
Images: Getty Images (2); mrbushytail, fandom-life-damned-me-to-hiatus, emma-cooper, royalwatcher/Tumblr; People