At the recent royal funeral, the public witnessed a heart-melting moment: Kate Middleton firmly held King Charles’ hand in the solemn crowd. Under the gloomy sunlight, King Charles’ eyes were distant, but when looking at Kate, it seemed that the loneliness was shared through the gentle grip. Kate then bowed silently, leaning her shoulder as if to protect the king – a small action that exuded a promise being sent. Many people present said that they trembled when they realized that this was not just a civil reception, but a chorus of mutual support in grief. The media lenses continuously captured the moment of exchanging glances, small smiles, and silent nods – like words without words. Fans posted blurry photos, writing captions: “Father and son don’t need words to understand each other.” But what made people more curious was the reaction inside the palace: a royal insider was later heard saying that Kate “was always a light” in the darkest hours. Was the handshake just a gesture of comfort, or a public pledge of unprecedented solidarity between Kate Middleton and King Charles during this tumultuous time?
Kate Middleton and King Charles are putting their close bond on full display today following the funeral of the late Duchess of Kent. The two royals attended the event at Westminster Cathedral and later parted ways with a curtsy from Middleton and a kiss on the cheek.
Kate Middleton and King Charles after the Requiem Mass service for Katharine, Duchess of Kent.
Prince William was also in attendance, amongst others. The couple stood behind the monarch as attendees departed the service. It was the first Catholic funeral to be held for a member of the British royal family, owing to the fact that the Duchess converted to the faith in 1994.
King Charles, Prince William, and Kate Middleton at the funeral for Katharine, Duchess of Kent.
Middleton’s sweet interaction with her father-in-law is just the latest display of affection in what is clearly one of the King’s most treasured relationships. Indeed, he once called her “my beloved daughter-in-law” during a royal visit to Kenya in 2023, per People.
Of course, part of the reason that King Charles and the Princess of Wales have grown so close in recent years is no doubt their dual cancer diagnoses. In 2024, both royals began treatment for undisclosed forms of the disease. Prince William later described the year as “brutal.”
“It’s been dreadful,” he added with regard to their illnesses. “It’s probably been the hardest year in my life.”
Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey on the 80th Anniversary of VE Day in 2025.
Middleton eventually announced that she was in remission on January 14, 2025.
“It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focussed on recovery,” the Princess wrote. “As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”
