He was born in Copenhagen, a son of King Frederick III of Denmark, and was considered a suitable partner for Anne, Denmark being, like Britain, a Protestant country; at that time, there was no likelihood of her becoming queen. They were married on July 28, 1683, at St James's Palace, London. George was subsequently created a British subject and a Knight of the Garter, and was given several titles, including Duke of Cumberland. However, he was never styled king.
The couple had seventeen children, only one of whom survived past infancy, William, Duke of Gloucester, who died of smallpox in 1700 at the age of 11.