A Candid Confession During Official Duties: Admits to Watching Royal News Videos
On June 4, local time, after completing her studies at the Academia General del Aire (General Air Academy) in Zaragoza, Spain’s heir to the throne, Princess Leonor, traveled to the Region of Murcia to attend an official event and receive the region’s highest honor, the Gold Medal. During a conversation with local content creators at the event, Princess Leonor frankly admitted that she uses social media.
Even more surprising to those present, she specifically revealed that she had watched the “Royal Salseo” (Royal Gossip) video series created by renowned Spanish presenter Nuria Marín. This series is known for discussing the dynamics and rumors of various European royal families. This admission indicates that, as a future head of state, Princess Leonor keeps up with how the public and media discuss members of the royal family.
A “Fan” Moment: Posing with a Singer for Her Military Academy Classmates
Another incident during the event also sparked media and public interest. According to sources at the scene, Princess Leonor specifically requested to have a photo taken with Spanish singer Walls (real name Ginés Paredes Giménez). The reason she gave was that she wanted to show the photo to her classmates at the military academy.
This down-to-earth request lightened the atmosphere and showed a more ordinary side of Leonor as a young student. The gesture was interpreted by the public as a sign that despite her royal duties, she maintains social habits and a mindset similar to her peers, such as sharing and “showing off” photos with celebrities to her friends.
Incorporating Youth Culture in Her Speech: A Nod to a Local Pop-Rock Band
Princess Leonor’s connection to youth culture was also evident in her public speech that day. In her formal address, besides mentioning traditional elements like the region’s patron saint, she made a special point to give a shout-out to Arde Bogotá, a well-known local band from Murcia.
This detail quickly sparked discussions among young people in Spain. By integrating popular music culture into an official speech, Leonor demonstrated her awareness and respect for modern local culture, effectively bridging the gap with the younger generation.
A New Generation of Royalty in the Digital Age
Unlike European royal heirs who grew up before the internet became widespread, Princess Leonor is a “Gen Z” royal, having grown up entirely in the age of smartphones and social media. From watching gossip videos about her own family to following popular singers and bands, her actions paint a picture of a future monarch who is no longer isolated from the world.
Although the Spanish Royal House has historically maintained strict control over its members’ public image, the frankness and approachability displayed by Princess Leonor show the monarchy is changing. She seems to signal a new direction for European royalty: one where its members are no longer mysterious figures detached from the internet, but rather active participants who know how to coexist with the digital age and use it to build a more modern public image.
