Overview

Prince Michael of Kent (Michael George Charles Franklin, b. 4 July 1942) is a member of the British royal family and a first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II. He is a grandson of King George V and Queen Mary, a connection often noted in accounts of the extended royal household. At birth he was near the front of the succession to the throne; with later generations his position has moved further down the list.

Family and personal life

Prince Michael is the younger son of Prince George, Duke of Kent, and Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark. His family ties link him into several European royal houses. His godfather was United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt, an unusual Anglo‑American connection for a member of the British royal family. In 1978 he married Baroness Marie‑Christine von Reibnitz, commonly known as Princess Michael of Kent. The couple have two children, Lord Frederick Windsor and Lady Gabriella Kingston, who are known publicly by their courtesy titles and the surname Windsor.

Role, duties and honours

Although not a full‑time working royal, Prince Michael carries out public engagements on occasion, representing the monarchy at selected events and supporting charities and organisations. He has been the recipient of a number of royal and chivalric honours, reflecting long service and patronage.

  • Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO)
  • Knight of the Order of St John (KStJ)

Notable facts and public profile

Two small details often highlighted in profiles are his descent from King George V and the fact that his godfather was an American president; the latter is frequently cited in accounts of his early life and international connections. Over the decades Prince Michael's public profile has combined ceremonial duties, charitable work and private interests. His place in the line of succession has fallen as later generations have been born; at the time of his birth he was seventh in line, while in recent listings he is much further down.

Further context

Biographies and official royal sources provide more detail on his activities, patronages and ceremonial roles. For readers wishing to consult primary records or curated historical summaries, reputable historical and governmental resources are useful starting points. For genealogical context see references to his grandparents King George V and Queen Mary, which explain his position within the wider royal family.