For nearly a decade, Maria Teresa Turion Baralo was a cornerstone in Prince George’s life, although her name remained largely unknown to the public. Behind the gates of Kensington Palace, Maria was much more than just a nanny; she was a quiet but powerful force of love, discipline, and stability in an often scrutinized world. She was the constant presence in George’s life, the one who whispered “Be kind” before school, packed his bag with snacks and little secrets, and sang lullabies from a homeland far away.

Then, unexpectedly, she was gone.

When the Princess of Wales returned from her long absence, the tight-knit support circle around her played a vital role, offering care and strength during this challenging period. Maria, who had been a loyal royal nanny since 2014, was integral in nurturing not only Prince George but also Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. For ten years, she played a key role in ensuring their upbringing remained as normal as possible, despite their royal status. The demands on the royal parents were enormous, but Maria helped alleviate the pressure, ensuring the children had some semblance of normalcy.

For years, Maria’s role was behind the scenes, but for those who paid attention to her bond with George, her sudden departure in 2024 was a shock. There was no official announcement, no public farewell. It was simply said to be a procedural change, though the real reasons behind her departure have remained a topic of speculation.

The palace has remained silent, and no official reason was ever given for why she left. Whispers inside the palace hinted at something deeper—a quiet reshuffling as George grew older and the expectations surrounding his royal duties intensified. Maria’s departure was a profound change, leaving a void that has been difficult to fill.

Born in Spain, Maria was highly trained and qualified in childcare, attending prestigious institutions like New Orle, which is known for training nannies with rigorous standards, including everything from martial arts to driving. Her career was nothing like the glamour often associated with royal life. Maria’s days began early, before dawn, preparing George’s meals, setting out his clothes, and planning his day with meticulous attention to detail.

But her role wasn’t just about routines. Maria developed a deep understanding of George’s needs, learning his unique cues—the way he scrunched his nose when tired or clenched his fists when frustrated. She knew how to soothe him in ways that few could, becoming attuned to his moods and offering the kind of care only a deeply invested person could provide.

While the cameras focused on ceremonial moments and picture-perfect snapshots, Maria was the one behind the scenes, crouching down to George’s level, coaxing out a smile with a toy, or offering soft words of encouragement before a public event. To the world, he was Prince George; to Maria, he was simply George.

Her influence extended far beyond child care. Maria introduced George to her Spanish heritage, singing lullabies from her childhood, sharing stories about her family, and creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere in the midst of royal protocol. She was a rare figure who gave George a sense of normalcy that was hard to come by in a life defined by rules and expectations.

Now, with Maria’s sudden departure, it’s clear that her role in George’s life can never truly be replaced. Her absence leaves a noticeable gap in the royal family’s daily life, as the children navigate growing up in the public eye. Maria may have quietly faded into the background, but her impact on Prince George and the royal family will never be forgotten.