Prince William surprises Scott Mills and Robert Irwin on BBC Radio 2

Prince William left a surprise voicenote for BBC Radio 2’s Scott Mills this morning, sending a personal message during the breakfast show to mark Robert Irwin’s appearance on air.

The message, played live to an unsuspecting Robert in the studio, included an invitation for Scott to attend the Earthshot Prize ceremony in Rio this November.

The Earthshot Prize is the Prince’s environmental initiative, supporting innovations that tackle global climate and conservation challenges.

William said: “Good morning, Scott, or should I say G’day, Scott? I know you’ve got the fantastic Robert Irwin on the show this morning, brilliant ambassador for the Earthshot Prize. Sorry, I can’t be with you both this morning, hoping to catch up with you soon.”

He also offered a light warning about Robert’s habit of surprising people with wildlife: “Just watch your back at all times that a tarantula or something doesn’t suddenly pop onto your desk.”

Robert, who is following in his late father Steve Irwin’s footsteps, laughed as the message played. He had just been named “resident wildlife expert” for the day, answering questions from children about animals including tigers and elephants.

He also chatted with Scott about UK wildlife, his plans to appear on *Dancing With the Stars*, and his role in the Earthshot Prize, saying it was “an honour to help spotlight conservation work happening around the world”.

BBC Radio 2 remains the UK’s most listened to radio station with 13.1 million weekly listeners, and Scott Mills’ breakfast show regularly features celebrity guests and live listener interaction.

More on the Earthshot Prize can be found at earthshotprize.org