Kate Middleton has been reminded that her future as Queen will involve duties she must fulfill regardless of personal preference, according to commentary from a former royal correspondent.
Jennie Bond, the former BBC royal reporter, spoke to The Mirror following the recent state visit of U.S. President Donald Trump. She praised the Princess of Wales for her confidence on the world stage but also underscored the long-term responsibilities that lie ahead.
Bond reflected on the visit, saying, “It must be a daunting responsibility to play a leading role in such an important state visit. But I have been struck by how poised and confident Catherine now is on the world stage.”
She noted the significance of the occasion. “For a middle-class girl from Berkshire to find herself seated next to the President of the United States — and one who is controversial and unpredictable — is a big ask. Her job was to keep him engaged and entertained without saying anything that could be construed as political.”
Bond added that Catherine seemed to succeed in her role. “Even her body language suggested she did it well, and she allowed herself to look happily flattered by his lavish praise. And, of course, she deserved some compliments: she looked a million dollars.”
However, Bond issued a caution about the future. “In the coming decades, Catherine will be hosting many state visits from leaders around the world. Like the King, and the late Queen, she and William will do the bidding of the government of the day.”
She emphasized the unavoidable nature of these responsibilities. “Like it or not, they will put on a show for their guests, in the name of improving bilateral relations and carrying out the wishes of our political leaders. As well as all the pageantry, the monarch must also have these people to stay in their home, no matter what they think of them.”
Bond recalled that even Queen Elizabeth II found the role trying at times. She recounted a famous anecdote in which the late Queen, weary of Romanian leader Nicolae Ceaușescu and his wife, hid behind a bush at Buckingham Palace to avoid them.
Despite the challenges, Bond praised Catherine’s growth and importance at such events. “I’m sure Catherine has already learned a great deal from the late Queen and from her father-in-law. She is the jewel in the crown at events like this. Camilla obviously also does her bit, and does it well, but it’s the princess who brings the wow factor to the banquet table.”