After a challenging year filled with memorable appearances at major events, the Princess of Wales is stepping back from the spotlight for the remainder of the year. She’s staying incredibly composed and is already looking ahead, making plans for what’s to come. According to sources close to the Palace, the Princess is preparing herself for her future role as Queen. To not only survive but also thrive in the royal family, one must possess immense strength.
The strict hierarchy of the palace can be intimidating, but Kate's confidence shines through. She knows that one day she will be the most important woman in the family—and indeed, the entire country—so she’s ensuring her voice is heard and respected.
In the latest Ipsos poll, Kate Middleton has emerged as the UK's most popular royal family member, topping the charts with 66% of Britons holding a favorable opinion of her. It's a bright indicator of the monarchy's future. Not far behind her is her husband, Prince William, with a 65% approval rating, followed by Princess Royal in third place with 62%.
Meanwhile, the UK population seems relatively satisfied with King Charles III’s reign, with over half of those surveyed believing he is doing a good job as Monarch. The overall perception of the royal family remains positive, with 53% of locals viewing them favorably.
In a year that has tested the royal family like never before, Princess Kate has emerged as the firm’s shining star. Her rare public appearances have only amplified her crucial role within the monarchy. Today, she made her third public appearance since revealing her cancer diagnosis, attending a service at Crathie Church on the Balmoral estate. Every time she steps into the public eye, the royal family’s presence is illuminated in a way that seems to dim when she’s not around.
Kate Middleton is essentially the Taylor Swift, Madonna, Kylie, or Britney of high society. Without her, the royal family would simply fade into the background. Her first public appearance since her diagnosis was at the Trooping the Colour event in June, where she joined the royal family on Buckingham Palace’s iconic balcony. This was followed by an appearance at Wimbledon in July, where she brought along her daughter, Princess Charlotte, and her sister, Pippa Matthews. Each appearance reminded the public of the Princess’s star power—a much-needed brightness in a year clouded by uncertainty.
Through her struggles, Kate has drawn even closer to the public, who see their own fears and hopes reflected in her journey. The nation’s deep concern for her well-being underscores the profound bond she has built with the people of this country over the years—a bond that cannot be easily broken. Meghan Markle, take note.
In the coming weeks and months, Kate will work closely with her top team, including her private secretary, Tom White, and assistant private secretary, Natalie Burroughs, to meticulously plan her gradual return to public life. She hopes to attend her Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey in December and join the royal family for the traditional walkabout on Christmas Day.
A source close to the royal family shared that Kate is eager to uphold these traditions with her family again this year. Alongside these events, she will continue to focus on causes, issues, and charities that are closest to her heart.
The new year is expected to bring a similar gradual return to royal duties, with her aides being careful not to rush her back into a full schedule. Some suggest that the six-month mark could be a likely timeframe for when the public can expect to see more regular engagements from the Princess.
One well-placed source noted that the couple has not ruled out rescheduling their visit to Rome, which was initially planned for spring 2024 but was postponed due to Kate’s cancer diagnosis. The trip could take place around the same time next year.
