Prince William and Kate Middleton’s love story spans decades, and it’s still going strong. After weathering personal and public challenges, the couple has emerged more united than ever.
According to Roya Nikkhah, the royals editor for The Sunday Times and co-host of the podcast “The Royals with Roya and Kate,” the Prince and Princess of Wales are “still very much in love.” She noted, “When you see them on engagements, they’re obviously still very much invested in each other.” Nikkhah added, “One’s always looking out for the other.” This was particularly evident during their recent outing to Southport, where Kate appeared slightly vulnerable, eliciting William’s protective demeanor.
Nikkhah elaborated on the couple's challenges with public scrutiny, stating, “When you have the weight of public scrutiny on you, it’s very hard to keep your private life private.” She referred to the intimate video shared by the couple when Kate announced the completion of her chemotherapy, showcasing moments rarely seen by the public. “We never get to see them like this,” she remarked.
Another royal expert, Richard Fitzwilliams, discussed William's dedication to Kate, saying, “He postponed beginning full-time royal duties for as long as he could for this purpose.” Fitzwilliams emphasized the couple's visible closeness, explaining, “William and Catherine have always indicated their private closeness and harmony, which they project publicly.” He took note of their competitive spirit, which often shines during royal tours filled with athletic activities.
The royal family faced significant challenges this past year, beginning with health concerns surrounding both King Charles III and Kate. January saw the announcement of Charles’s treatment for enlarged prostate, followed by his publicized cancer diagnosis. Shortly thereafter, Kate revealed her cancer treatment, which had been the subject of rampant speculation on social media. Reports indicated she spent much of this tumultuous time supported by William, who took time off to prioritize his wife's health.
September brought relief when Kate announced she was cancer-free, expressing gratitude for her family’s support through the ordeal. She reflected on the past difficult months, stating, “This time has reminded William and me to reflect and appreciate the simple yet important things in life.” Her touching remarks highlighted the couple's renewed perspectives on love and family.
Helena Chard, broadcaster and photographer, shed light on the couple's current dynamic, saying they enjoy “a happy, stable family life full of fun, love, and laughter.” She remarked on their commitment to maintaining privacy, noting how their past of partying has evolved to shared interests, particularly competitive sports and outdoor activities.
Chard reiterated, “The Prince and Princess of Wales are best friends, each other’s support blanket and cheerleader.” She noted, “Laughter and enjoying the small things together are their medicine.” The challenges of Kate’s illness have imparted clarity on the fragile nature of life, leading to more appreciation for one another.
During his visit to Cape Town, South Africa, on November 7, William described 2024 as the “hardest year” of his life, particularly discussing the death of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. “Trying to keep everything on track has been really difficult,” he shared, reflecting on both family responsibilities and personal challenges.
On the subject of their daily lives, he commented on the constant balancing act, saying, “I enjoy my work, and I enjoy pacing myself to make sure I have time for my family too.” William also praised Kate's resilience, noting, “I’m so proud of my wife.”
Hilary Fordwich, another royal expert, predicted as Kate returns to royal duties, William will provide her needed support. She noted the couple’s interactions at public events often remind onlookers of their youthful romantic connection. Fordwich reminisced about their early years, highlighting how their shared interests, like swimming at the Old Course Hotel pool, deepened their bond.
Fordwich remarked on their public displays of affection, sharing, “Their comfort with each other from those deep bonds formed at university has never waned.” Such displays, she added, signify no hesitance to express their feelings, symbolizing both growth and stability.
Aside from their emotional journeys and experiences, William recently humorously recounted his early gift-giving missteps, recalling, “I did get my wife a pair of binoculars once—she's never let me forget.” This light-hearted anecdote exemplifies their connection and the humor they maintain within their relationship.