Kate Middleton is next in line to become Queen as her husband Prince William is heir to the throne, and it's been reported that she's already thought about who would become her Lady-in-Waiting. The significant royal role is to provide companionship and support, as well as help with royal duties.
A royal expert has suggested that the Princess of Wales might consider appointing her sister Pippa Matthews as her Lady-in-Waiting as she steps into a more prominent position within the Royal Family. Unlike her previous engagements where Kate did not rely on ladies-in-waiting or companions, the situation may change, especially with her future as Queen in view, reports the Mirror.
The late Queen Elizabeth II had a team of ladies in waiting to help with her duties, while Queen Camilla appointed several companions to assist her. On the latest episode of True Royalty TV's The Royal Beat: Back in Time, a royal historian alongside the late Queen Elizabeth II's former communications secretary discussed how Kate might need to adapt her approach.
They delved into the history and roles of ladies-in-waiting who have supported female royals throughout the years. Royal historian Kate Williams said: "I think traditionally, we might expect Catherine to appoint her sister Pippa, because Catherine is so famously close to her family. She doesn't have companions because she's so close to her mother and her sister. I think we might possibly expect that Pippa might be someone she might appoint.
"But then, of course, Pippa has her own life. Three children, and a busy life of her own. It's a fascinating question. And the role is definitely evolving at the same time. It's evolving, but the job of a monarch and a consort isn't getting any smaller. The letters, the correspondence, the emails are growing every day. So when Catherine becomes Queen, the levels of tours, the levels of letters, the level of receptions, will still require this assistance. So I think she will have to appoint some ladies in waiting."
Ailsa Anderson, former communications secretary to Queen Elizabeth, said: "The Princess of Wales currently doesn't have any Ladies in Waiting or companions. I think when she becomes the Queen, she will possibly rethink that. It's actually quite nice to have somebody who you've known and trusted to be by your side in those big events because when you've always got to be on show."
She continued: "Catherine is the most globally recognised woman, probably on the planet. Everything you do, everything you wear, everything you say is, is massively over-scrutinised. It must be nice to have some downtime to talk to someone who you can trust and actually say, 'You know, whether that was an amazing visit' or to kick your shoes off with, have a cup of tea and actually be yourself rather than being an actor playing yourself."
In a touching and sincere broadcast to the public, Kate disclosed her diagnosis back in March, describing it as "an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family". Yet, showcasing her remarkable courage, the princess sent out a message of optimism to others in similar struggles, stating: "For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone."
