Real reason Prince William was absent from Firm's big outing at Festival of Remembrance

Prince William did not join his wife, Princess Kate and son, Prince George, at the annual Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall tonight, but there is a good reason behind his absence. The Royal Family put up a united front in London today to commemorate all those who have served and given their lives in the service of their country.

However, the future King missed the staple royal event as he had arrived back in the UK just hours earlier, after completing his successful five-day tour of Brazil. William spent three days in Rio de Janeiro showcasing his Earthshot Prize, which concluded with a spectacular awards ceremony on Wednesday night, featuring performances by pop sensation Kylie Minogue and Canadian singer Shawn Mendes.

He then headed to the Amazon Rainforest in Belem to deliver a powerful speech at COP30 on behalf of his father, the King.

William would have undoubtedly been keen to attend the poignant event; however, it is understood he is prioritising his appearance at tomorrow's Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph in London.

The Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence were also not in attendance as they are carrying out a military-focused tour in Australia.

This year, the Festival of Remembrance commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

It also marks the 25th anniversary of the UK Government lifting the ban on gay, lesbian, and bisexual personnel serving openly in the Armed Forces and reflects on past discrimination, while celebrating the progress made since 2000.

The King, who became Patron of the Royal British Legion earlier this year, and Queen led the Royal Family at the poignant event on Saturday evening, which comes ahead of the National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph tomorrow morning.

William and Kate will join the King and Queen for the sombre event, which will see thousands gathered in the heart of Whitehall to watch the Remembrance Service, during which some 10,000 veterans will march past the memorial.

The Royal Family will lead the nation in two minutes of silent reflection, punctuated by gunfire by the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery from nearby Horse Guards Parade.