ADVERTISEMENT
Yet, as the crown has finally settled on his head, Charles seems to have realized that the survival of the institution depends on a shift in strategy. While previous reports suggested that there were lingering worries within the palace that Prince William and Kate’s surging popularity might overshadow the King and Queen Camilla, the reality of 2025 has brought a different perspective. Charles, now a seasoned monarch focused on legacy, appears to recognize that Catherine is not a threat to his authority, but rather the most powerful asset the monarchy possesses.
Royal biographer Robert Jobson suggests that the King has reached a level of personal and professional maturity that allows him to embrace the limelight-stealing power of his daughter-in-law.2 Charles understands that for the monarchy to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world, it must bridge the gap between ancient tradition and modern celebrity. He acknowledges that while he holds the constitutional power, the natural focus of media interest and public adoration will inevitably gravitate toward the younger generation—the Wales family.
King Charles’s approval of Kate’s prominent role is deeply rooted in the pragmatic need for the monarchy to survive. The King is acutely aware that the institution must appeal to younger generations who have little connection to the rigid hierarchies of the past. William and Catherine have mastered this modern landscape, utilizing social media to share polished, cinematic updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of their philanthropic work.3 Their approach is less about the distance of “the firm” and more about the accessibility of a modern family. By allowing Kate to lead, Charles is essentially future-proofing the throne, ensuring that the public remains emotionally invested in the people who will one day occupy it.
Furthermore, this blessing reflects a shift in the internal family dynamics of the Windsors. Unlike the competitive atmosphere that defined the 1980s and 90s, the current relationship between the King and the Princess of Wales is one of mutual respect and shared burden. Kate has proven herself to be a steady, unflappable presence, navigating her role with a grace that has earned the King’s genuine affection.4 In many ways, she has become the bridge between the old guard and the new, a role that Diana was never permitted to fulfill.
The King’s decision to let Kate occupy the spotlight also serves as a subtle act of redemption for his own past. By encouraging Catherine to shine, he is effectively breaking the cycle of jealousy that once tore his personal life apart. He is choosing to lead with wisdom rather than ego, prioritizing the stability of the crown over the vanity of the individual. It is a sign of a King who is comfortable in his own skin, secure enough in his position to allow others to bask in the glow of public adulation without feeling diminished by it.
ADVERTISEMENT