In a newly released biography, it has been revealed that Kate Middleton once considered refusing the title of Princess of Wales due to concerns about constant comparisons to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. The book, "Catherine, The Princess of Wales: The Biography" by Robert Jobson, sheds light on the internal struggles Kate faced when assuming the title.
Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, King Charles III ascended to the throne and promptly named his son, Prince William, as the Prince of Wales. This automatically bestowed the title of Princess of Wales upon Kate, a title last held by Princess Diana until her tragic death in 1997.
Jobson writes, "In marrying the elder son of Prince Charles, Catherine was aware she'd one day have to tread in her late mother-in-law's footsteps-but the prospect of becoming the Princess of Wales held little appeal." He explains that Kate was deeply aware of the inevitable comparisons to Diana, whose death had evoked a global outpouring of grief and admiration.
"Kate found all such talk stressful. Indeed, it got to the point where she felt she might follow Camilla (who opted to become Duchess of Cornwall) in refusing-when the time came-to be known as HRH Princess of Wales," Jobson adds.
During their engagement interview in 2010, Prince William addressed the potential pressure on Kate due to his mother's legacy. "There's no pressure, because like Kate said it is about carving your own future. No one is going to try to fill my mother's shoes. What she did was fantastic. It's about making your own future and your own destiny, and Kate will do a very good job of that," William stated.
Despite her initial reservations, Kate eventually embraced the title, appreciating its historical significance while striving to create her own legacy. A royal source stated at the time, "The new Princess of Wales appreciates the history associated with this role but will understandably want to look to the future as she creates her own path."
Queen Camilla also had the option to take on the title of Princess of Wales upon marrying King Charles in 2005 but chose not to, out of respect for Diana's memory. Initially, it was expected that Camilla would become Princess Consort when Charles became King. However, public sentiment warmed over the years, and she was crowned Queen alongside Charles at the coronation last year.
Since her relationship with Prince William became public, Kate Middleton has been a subject of endless comparisons to Princess Diana. Diana remains an iconic figure, beloved and remembered for her compassionate work and her tragic demise. This comparison created significant pressure on Kate as she stepped into her royal duties.
The biography details that Kate's concern was not unfounded. The public and the media have often juxtaposed her actions, style, and public engagements with those of Diana. This scrutiny extended into the royal household, where the similarities and differences between the two women were frequently discussed.
In a 2022 speech, King Charles highlighted the importance of William and Kate's new roles. "Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty. With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the center ground, where vital help can be given."
This public endorsement from the King underscored the trust and expectations placed on William and Kate as they carry forward the responsibilities associated with their titles. Over time, Kate has managed to carve out her own identity, earning admiration for her dedication to various charitable causes and her role within the royal family.
The biography also touches on the personal struggles Kate faced while adapting to her public role. Despite the pressures, she has been recognized for her efforts in modernizing the monarchy and addressing contemporary issues. Her work in mental health, early childhood development, and support for military families has garnered widespread acclaim.
