Marrying into the royal family brings a level of fame that few can anticipate. Unlike traditional celebrity status, royal fame is a unique blend of admiration and criticism, with the media constantly scrutinizing every move. Over the years, royal women have faced both praise and relentless speculation.
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has held several formal titles throughout her time in the royal family. However, there was one title she and Prince William had hoped for but were ultimately denied. Meanwhile, Camilla Parker Bowles was reportedly never thrilled about the idea of becoming queen, often telling King Charles, "Can't we get away from all this protocol? It's all bollocks."
Before their grand wedding in 2011, much speculation surrounded the titles the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge would receive. At the time, sources reported that Prince William wanted to retain his birth name rather than take on a dukedom. An insider revealed, "He says he was born Prince William and wants to continue to be known as that." Additionally, William wished for Catherine to be called Princess Catherine, but this did not align with the late Queen Elizabeth II's traditions. Historically, princess titles are inherited by birth rather than marriage, though the queen had made exceptions in the past.
"Catherine is a commoner and could not be known as Princess Kate," a royal source explained. "However, it is up to the queen to decide what title she grants her, and there have been one or two exceptions." One such exception was Princess Alice, the Duchess of Gloucester, who received her title as recognition for her many years of service. If Catherine had been granted the title of Princess Catherine upon her marriage, it could have set a precedent for other royals to request similar adjustments. A royal commentator noted, "If this happened, I am pretty certain that Princess Michael of Kent, for example, would ask to become Princess Marie Christine. I should think there will be some pressure on William not to change the system."
Following their wedding, Catherine officially became Princess William of Wales, signifying her status as William’s wife. However, she was more commonly referred to as the Duchess of Cambridge, a title she carried until becoming the Princess of Wales.
Meanwhile, royal expert Tom Quinn has revealed that Camilla was initially resistant to the idea of becoming queen. "The 77-year-old hated the idea of being queen," Quinn stated. Despite this, King Charles—who reportedly dislikes swearing—would respond, "You're doing it, becoming queen for me, darling, in the fullness of time."
In a letter penned in February 2022, Queen Elizabeth II expressed her support for Camilla’s future title: "I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me, and it is my sincere wish that, when the time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service." Following the queen’s passing on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96, Camilla officially became Queen Consort.
However, discussions within the palace suggested that the term "Queen Consort" might be too cumbersome. "There were opinions that it might be simpler for Camilla to be known just as ‘The Queen’ when the time is right," a source claimed. "Prince Philip was officially known as the Prince Consort but was rarely referred to as such. Similarly, while Camilla would technically remain Queen Consort, the palace wouldn't stop people from simply calling her 'The Queen' if they preferred."
Recently, King Charles III and Queen Camilla drew attention during an engagement in London. The 76-year-old king appeared to frustrate Camilla when he briefly left her alone during their visit to an Indian restaurant. The outing was part of an event celebrating the contributions of Muslim women, marking the beginning of Ramadan. At one point, Camilla appeared tense due to the king's unexpected absence. "I think my husband is supposed to be doing this," she remarked, unable to hide her emotions.
As Charles remained distracted, Camilla waved at him and even coughed loudly to get his attention. The king eventually noticed and responded with a smile, saying, "Relax, Camilla." The moment quickly passed, and the royal couple resumed their engagement, sharing their happiness with the restaurant staff and guests.
