The relationship between Kate Middleton and Queen Camilla is often seen as one rooted in mutual respect and admiration.
Camilla, who endured significant public criticism and judgment after her affair with then-Prince Charles became known, was committed to shielding Kate from facing similar scrutiny as she prepared to marry Prince William.
From their first meeting, Camilla was described as warm and welcoming towards Kate. Upon Kate’s entry into the royal fold, Camilla took deliberate steps to foster a strong connection with her. She made similar efforts with both Prince William and Prince Harry, though her relationship with Harry was less successful, particularly due to his ongoing tensions with the royal family, leaving him with minimal support within it.
Before Kate and William’s marriage, it was reported that Camilla had invited Kate, along with her sister Pippa and her daughter Laura Lopes, for a dinner gathering.
According to a source who overheard the conversation, “They were all chatting openly and clearly didn’t seek out a secluded table or try to keep their voices down. At one point, Kate jokingly asked, ‘What happens if William doesn’t show up?’”
Additionally, Camilla is said to have given Kate a very meaningful wedding gift: a bracelet with charms engraved with the letters “Cs” on either side. It is believed that these initials stand for “Catherine” and “Camilla.”
During the 2022 Remembrance Sunday service, where Britain paid tribute to its fallen soldiers and military personnel, Camilla and Kate caught the public’s attention.
The Queen Consort and the Princess of Wales were seen on the balcony of the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, observing the ceremony. Traditionally, it was the Queen and the two of them who stood there, but in respect for the late Queen, Camilla and Kate chose to leave a gap between them rather than standing side by side.
The royals wore black coats with three poppies pinned on them.
Experts closely observed the actions of the royal family, with body language specialist Judy James noting that Kate made a polite yet significant gesture toward the “nervous” Queen Consort.
Camilla appeared to be feeling the weight of attending the service for the first time in her new role as Queen Consort, which seemed to cause her some anxiety. Thankfully, Kate was there to offer her support.
James shared with the Mirror, “From her position on the balcony, Camilla blended signs of royal duty with subtle expressions of unease. Standing next to Kate, she gave a slight, acknowledging smile as her wreath was placed. When she turned to Kate as they left the balcony, she gave Kate a warm smile while Kate spoke to her.”
Camilla offered Kate a second smile and a nod, signaling acknowledgment as she walked ahead of her in her new position as Queen. However, her body language revealed noticeable anxiety. She seemed restless, unable to stay still, and although she spoke to Kate briefly, her gaze remained fixed ahead instead of turning towards her.
In contrast, Kate responded with a quick turn of her head, showing a polite concern. Her composed and still posture was a sharp contrast to Camilla’s restless movements, which were most evident in the way she nervously fiddled with her hymn sheet, constantly adjusting it with both hands.
Despite appearing composed, Kate was also dealing with stress, as James observed. The couple and their children have experienced significant upheaval since the passing of Queen Elizabeth. Their move to a new home, their children’s transition to a different school, and the added weight of their new titles have all brought about a lot of new responsibilities.
The King himself had a hard time fighting back the tears during the service.
James shared with the Mirror that “Charles stood by the Cenotaph, appearing completely isolated, deep in thought. His expression was somber, and his quick blinks suggested he was on the verge of tears, reflecting on both his mother and those who lost their lives in battle.”
He also mentioned, “There was even a subtle movement in his lips, as if holding back emotions while the Last Post played.”
Charles’ coronation is scheduled for May 6, marking the moment when Camilla will formally be crowned as Queen Consort. However, as her popularity continues to rise, the Palace might choose to drop ‘Consort’ from her title and refer to her simply as Queen.
The Telegraph reports that Buckingham Palace may even give Camilla the title of “Queen” before her husband’s coronation.