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Prince Philip's Schedule Is About To Get A Lot Lighter

Buckingham Palace announced Prince Philip will retire from royal duties in the fall.
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Most people retire before hitting their 95th birthday. But Prince Philip has always been a bit of a rebel

Buckingham Palace announced Thursday the Duke of Edinburgh will step back from royal duties in the fall. 

He will carry out engagements he's already accepted between now and August. Palace officials say Philip could still choose to attend a public event every once in a while after that time. 

Officials made sure to note Philip has the full support of his wife, Queen Elizabeth II. 

As the royal couple have gotten older, they've scaled back on the number of engagements they participate in.

Even so, Philip spent 110 days attending royal events in 2016 — the fifth most of anyone in the royal family. Elizabeth spent 80. Their daughter, Anne, Princess Royal, was the busiest with a total of 179 days. 

Since Elizabeth ascended to the throne in 1952, Philip has taken part in more than 22,000 solo engagements. And he's been involved in some form with over 780 organizations. 

The couple has a rather impressive personal milestone approaching: In November, they will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary.