In a revealing new biography, it has been disclosed that Kate Middleton, now officially the Princess of Wales, initially considered rejecting the title due to the immense pressure and inevitable comparisons to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. Robert Jobson's book, Catherine, The Princess of Wales: A Biography of the Future Queen, delves into the Duchess of Cambridge's concerns and her eventual acceptance of the title that carries significant historical and emotional weight.
Kate Middleton reportedly considered declining the Princess of Wales title to avoid the stress associated with being compared to Princess Diana. Jobson writes that Kate was acutely aware of the intense scrutiny and emotional resonance tied to the title, given Diana's tragic death in 1997 and her enduring legacy as the "People's Princess."
"She knew she'd inevitably be compared with Diana, whose untimely death had provoked such a tsunami of anger and grief," Jobson explains in his book. This issue was extensively discussed within the royal household, with Kate feeling considerable stress over the potential expectations and comparisons.
The book details that Kate's contemplation of refusing the title mirrored the decision of Camilla, Queen Consort, who chose to be known as the Duchess of Cornwall upon marrying then-Prince Charles in 2005, out of respect for Diana. However, when King Charles III ascended to the throne in September 2022, Kate accepted the title of Princess of Wales "with good grace, out of respect for her husband and the King," Jobson notes. By this time, Kate had established herself on the world stage and was appreciated for her own qualities, making the title more palatable.
During King Charles III's first speech as monarch, he proudly announced that Prince William would take on the title of Prince of Wales, thus making Kate the Princess of Wales. The couple, both 42, have since focused on deepening the trust and respect of the people of Wales. A royal source told PEOPLE that William and Kate "will approach their roles in the modest and humble way they've approached their work previously."
Kate's embrace of the Princess of Wales title also reflects her understanding of its historical significance. "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," a royal source told PEOPLE. Kate has often honored Diana through her fashion choices and by wearing her heirloom engagement ring, which William used to propose to her in 2010.
In one poignant moment, during a walkabout in Wales, Kate spoke about the ring, noting, "Same ring, and exactly the same - the same size." She expressed how honored she was to wear the jewelry and remarked on how Diana would have been a "brilliant" grandmother to her and William's three children: Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6. "We miss her every day," she added.
Jobson's biography provides a comprehensive look at Kate's journey and her thoughtful approach to her royal duties. He emphasizes that by the time she took on the Princess of Wales title, Kate had earned recognition for her own merits, reducing the overwhelming shadow of comparison to Diana. This sentiment is echoed by Paul Burrell, Diana's former butler, who praised Kate for her sense of stability, strength, and grace. "If her mother-in-law could say anything, she would tell her that she's doing an incredible job. The country adores her," Burrell shared.
Despite the challenges of stepping into a role once held by one of the most beloved figures in modern royal history, Kate has managed to carve out her own identity while honoring Diana's legacy. Her decision to embrace the title signifies her commitment to her role and her confidence in her ability to meet its demands with dignity and respect.
