Prince William and Kate Middleton, the future faces of the British monarchy, are reportedly causing tension behind the palace walls due to their non-traditional approach to royal duties. While they remain two of the most popular royals, their decision to break from the established royal routine has raised concerns among palace staff.
The Scottish Express previously reported that the couple’s reluctance to fulfill certain official duties has frustrated some aides. William’s decision to step back from engagements in 2024 during Kate’s cancer treatment was seen as understandable, but prior to that, whispers had emerged within the palace about Kate being referred to as a “part-time royal.”
Despite his wife’s illness, William still found time to pursue personal interests, such as traveling to Germany for the Euros and attending the Earthshot Prize event in South Africa. Meanwhile, Kate, now 43, has resumed her royal duties but continues to prioritize her role as a mother to Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.
William’s royal duties have also sparked controversy, with reports suggesting that King Charles had to direct him to attend Pope Francis’ funeral, according to the Scottish Daily Express. Camilla Tominey, associate editor of Telegraph, reports that William and Kate are under increasing pressure to increase their workload, with some aides concerned they are prioritizing family life over their commitments to the monarchy.
This shift in focus is believed to be one of the reasons a reconciliation with William’s brother, Prince Harry, seems increasingly unlikely. Harry’s move to California in 2020 and subsequent criticisms of the royal family, including allegations of a physical altercation with William over Meghan Markle, have strained their relationship. Although William is said to have softened his stance on the matter, friends claim that reconciliation is “low down their list of priorities,” with the prevailing attitude being, “let sleeping dogs lie.”
Despite the growing tension within the family, William continues to focus on global issues, such as delivering a speech on ocean conservation in Monaco after meeting French President Emmanuel Macron.
