When it comes to her public persona, a royal commentator said that Kate Middleton “falls somewhere between” the “spark and relatability” of Princess Diana and Queen Camilla’s “more thoughtful, intentional presence.”
Princess Diana.
Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images)
Queen Camilla.
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In a recent cover story with Us Weekly about the Princess of Wales and her evolving role within the monarchy, Amanda Matta said that Diana was a trailblazer “who reshaped the public’s view of the monarchy with her emotional openness.” Camilla, meanwhile, “takes a more supportive role” and focuses on her charity work outside of the limelight. Kate seems to be right in the center of the two women—a public figure who can oscillate between being the star of the show and playing a supporting role for her husband, Prince William, or her father-in-law, King Charles.
It is the goal of both William and Kate to “strike a balance between formality and the informal, which is appropriate for the time and connects with all age groups,” royal expert Hugo Vickers told the outlet.
Kate Middleton and Prince William on April 20, 2023.
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After a difficult 2024 that saw both Kate and Charles diagnosed with cancer—Kate is currently in remission, while the King’s treatment continues—“Kate’s return to royal duties has been careful and considered, reflecting her need to protect her well-being,” royal commentator Afua Acheampong-Hagan said. “Her ability to manage this transition will set a precedent for how the royal family balances duty with personal well-being in the future.”
Kate Middleton on November 15, 2023.
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For both William and Kate, “their young family comes first,” Vickers said. Matta added that Kate’s plans going forward into 2025 and beyond are to “fully center her family while still maintaining a continued public presence,” and that Kate’s dropping her kids off at school and attending their respective sporting events “reflects a modern, relatable approach to royal life.”
William and Kate, for their part, are in “a renewed honeymoon phase reflective of their deepening connection,” Matta said. As she leans deeper into her Princess of Wales role—and is closer every day to one day becoming Queen—“Kate will focus on causes that interest her rather than too many general things,” Vickers said.
When she does become Queen, “Kate will play a crucial role in shaping the monarchy’s relationship with the public at a time when discussions about the relevance of the royal family are ongoing,” Acheampong-Hagan said. Kate “will be navigating the balance between tradition and modernity,” she added. “Kate needs to help shape a royal family that remains connected to the public while upholding the traditions that define it.”
Kate Middleton on March 17, 2025.
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Kate Middleton on June 23, 2022.
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Acheampong-Hagan further added that “Kate has already shown she has the dedication and strength to take on this role with confidence and purpose, adding that “She will likely continue to grow into one of the most influential queen consorts in modern history.”