A royal author has suggested that Kate Middleton may feel burdened by carrying the weight of the monarchy, as she remains one of the royal family’s most popular and in-demand members while facing heightened public attention since returning to public life after her cancer battle.
According to royal author Catherine Mayer, the Princess of Wales has become the royal family’s “rockstar” at a time when the institution is navigating a series of challenges, including ongoing fallout surrounding ex-Prince Andrew, criticism of the monarchy at some public events, and increased attention on Kate herself, whom Mayer said has been “scrutinized more than ever.” Keep reading for more info…
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Kate Middleton Described As A 'Rockstar' By Royal Author
Mayer, whose book Divide & Rule: Royal Women and Their Battles is released on June 23rd, told People that the royal family is currently benefiting from the optimism and stability the Princess of Wales brings.
"Kate is the closest they have to a rockstar member these days, and she's the one everyone wants to see," Mayer said. "That's a huge burden for anyone to carry, let alone someone who has had existential battles with her health."
The comments come after a difficult few years for the Princess of Wales. Kate revealed in March 2024 that she had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy, and later announced in January 2025 that she was in remission.
Kate Middleton Has Been 'Scrutinized More Than Ever'
Mayer noted that Kate's return to public duties following her cancer treatment came with immense pressure, particularly when she made a high-profile appearance at Trooping the Color in June 2024.
"Kate not only had to look vibrant and in command of her role, but she knew she would be scrutinized more than ever," Mayer said.
Despite being widely regarded as one of the royal family's most popular members, Kate has also faced criticism and public backlash. Some of that scrutiny has stemmed from broader frustrations with the monarchy, including lingering anger over Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Most recently, Kate and her children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis – were booed as they rode in a carriage during this year's Trooping the Color procession along The Mall, which they all seemed visibly upset over.
It was not the first time she had faced such a reception, either. Earlier this year, the Princess of Wales and other members of the royal family were also booed by some anti-monarchy protesters while attending the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in London.
Even so, Mayer suggested that the Princess of Wales remains one of the monarchy's most important figures, which only adds to the pressure and expectations that come with her role.
