Prince William was reportedly "fuming" after his father, King Charles III, and stepmother, Queen Camilla, suggested that his wife, Kate Middleton, change the spelling of her first name, Catherine, according to a new book.
Christopher Andersen, author of "Kate! The Courage, Grace, and Power of the Woman Who Will Be Queen," claims that Charles and Camilla expressed concern that a third royal monogram beginning with 'C' would be excessive, as they already had interlocking 'C's beneath a crown. They allegedly asked if Kate would mind changing her name from 'Catherine' to 'Katherine.'
According to Andersen, a "fuming William replied on his wife’s behalf," calling the request "insulting," not only to Kate but to her entire family. He perceived the suggestion as another command aimed at appeasing Camilla.
Andersen told Fox News Digital that the request highlights the importance of image and branding within the royal family, describing the monarchy as a "giant game of one-upmanship." He added that William has consistently defended Kate, citing an instance in 2012 when topless photos of her were published, prompting him to order palace lawyers to sue and seek criminal prosecution.
He also noted William's efforts to ensure Kate was not overburdened with royal duties that would take her away from their children. Despite Kate's cooperative nature, Andersen wrote that she personally prefers to be known as Catherine and feels strongly about the name her parents gave her.
The author suggested that Kate believed Charles's idea was absurd and likely originated from someone else, and she held no ill will. The book also mentions that subsequent cancer diagnoses for both King Charles III and Kate Middleton put such matters into perspective.
Andersen described Kate as having a "will of steel" beneath her kind and compassionate demeanor, stating that she is secure in her identity and how she wishes to be perceived. Changing her formal name for what he called a "bizarre, almost comical reason" was a step too far.
British broadcaster Helena Chard referred to the name change suggestion as a "nonstarter" and a "lost cause," telling Fox News Digital that Charles and Camilla were likely thinking with a "business head" given Kate's public persona. She acknowledged that William's offense extended to his wife's family.
Royal broadcaster Ian Pelham Turner suggested the situation could have been a "volatile moment" but asserted that William's protection has been a constant. He observed that Kate has maintained a strategic distance from Charles and Camilla at times to avoid overshadowing them. However, he also noted her growing personal brand as William prepares for the responsibilities of kingship.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams called the alleged suggestion "idiotic" and "stupid," questioning the rationale behind it. Andersen reiterated that the incident underscores the royals' keen awareness of details, from grand symbols like coaches and castles to seemingly minor elements such as letters in their crests, all of which hold significance for them.