In a rare and candid interview with actor Eugene Levy, Prince William revealed his thoughts on the future of the British monarchy, his family life, and the emotional challenges he’s faced in recent years.

Filmed at Windsor Castle, the conversation marks one of the most personal glimpses into the life of the future king. William greeted Levy while riding an electric scooter, joking about his love for the American Pie films, in which Levy famously played a lovable and awkward father.

During a tour of the castle, William reflected on the pressures of royal legacy.

“History can be a real weight and an anchor… you can feel suffocated by it. I think it’s important to live for the here and now,” he said.

Though proud of tradition, William made it clear he intends to modernize the monarchy when he becomes king:

“There are points when you look at tradition and go, is that still fit for purpose today? … I like to question things.”

The two later walked the royal family’s dog, Orla, around the grounds while discussing family, public scrutiny, and the impact of media on royal life. Though he avoided commenting on his current relationship with Prince Harry, William did reference their shared past:

“I hope we don’t go back to some of the practices in the past that Harry and I grew up in. And I’ll do everything I can to make sure we don’t regress.”

He also opened up about the personal toll of his wife and father both battling cancer, describing family concerns as “overwhelming” at times.

The interview concluded with a stop at the Two Brewers pub near Windsor Castle, where William drank sweet cider and Levy ordered a Guinness. In this informal setting, the prince seemed most relaxed as he spoke about protecting his children during tough times:

“We’re a very open family… but you never quite know the knock-on effects. It’s just important to be there for each other and reassure the children that everything is okay.”

Levy later told the BBC he was surprised by how sincere and unscripted the prince was throughout the day:

“It was just a conversation… It was totally surreal.”

William ended on a hopeful note:

“I’m so proud of my wife and my father… I want to create a world my son would be proud of.”