At Queen Elizabeth II’s final Trooping the Colour celebration in 2022, it was young Prince Louis who unexpectedly stole the show on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
Only four years old at the time, the young royal won hearts with his animated expressions and cheeky charm. But among his many adorable moments, one particular question he asked his great-grandmother stood out as especially touching. That year’s ceremony held deeper meaning, as it coincided with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, marking an incredible 70 years on the throne.
💬 What Did Prince Louis Say During the Balcony Appearance?
As the Royal Family gathered on the balcony, lipreader Jeremy Freeman shared that Prince Louis, gazing up at the sky, asked Queen Elizabeth, “Are the Red Arrows coming?”
The Queen replied with a warm, “I hope so,” according to Freeman, as reported by The Mirror.
When the Red Arrows soared overhead, painting the sky in red, white, and blue, Louis lit up with joy, exclaiming, “Yes, yes, yes!” The Queen responded sweetly, “There it is.” Louis, visibly amazed, added, “Oh, Red Arrows, whoa!”
The interaction revealed a touching bond between the Queen and her great-grandson.
Freeman also observed Louis covering his ears as the aircraft flew past, creating a “70” in the sky in tribute to the Queen’s historic reign.
The Queen reacted with a gentle “Ohh, fun,” while Princess Kate said, “Amazing,” and Princess Charlotte chimed in with an enthusiastic “Wow.” Startled by the sound, Louis reportedly said, “Whoa, that was loud!”
Beaming with pride, Kate turned to Prince William and said, “Look at him,” watching their youngest son enjoy the event with wide-eyed wonder.
🎖 What Is Trooping the Colour?
Trooping the Colour is one of the most iconic events in the British royal calendar. Held annually to celebrate the sovereign’s official birthday, the event features a spectacular military parade and an aerial display by the Royal Air Force.
The Royal Family traditionally watches the flypast from the Buckingham Palace balcony — a moment often captured in photos and widely shared.
This ceremony dates back to the 1600s, originally serving as a military drill to familiarize soldiers with their regiment’s colors. Today, it has evolved into a grand display of patriotism and royal tradition.
🕊 How Old Was Prince Louis When Queen Elizabeth II Passed Away?
Prince Louis was only four years old when Queen Elizabeth II died in September 2022 at the age of 96.
Now seven, Louis continues to charm the public with his playful demeanor at royal engagements. During the recent 80th anniversary of VE Day, he once again drew attention — flicking his hair, mimicking his brother Prince George, and tugging at Prince William’s uniform for attention.
At one point, he politely tried to interrupt his father mid-conversation, and later, his excitement was on full display during the balcony appearance.
Yet when the moment called for seriousness, Louis stood respectfully during the national anthem — a sign that even at a young age, he understands the dignity of his royal role.