Prince William Reportedly Leans on an Unexpected Father Figure During 'Crisis' — It's Not King Charles
As heir apparent, Prince William was guided by senior royals throughout his early life as part of his royal grooming. While many might expect him to turn to King Charles, he reportedly confides in a second father figure for valuable advice. Royal expert Katie Nicoll revealed that the Prince of Wales relies heavily on Kate Middleton’s father, Michael Middleton, owing to their close bond. She explained that Michael’s calm demeanor is a valuable asset for William during times of crisis.
During an episode of the Dynasty: The Royal Family's Most Challenging Year podcast, Nicoll revealed that Michael is a 'really wonderful' father-in-law. As reported by the Daily Mail, she said, "I know they have a close relationship, and that William will often turn to Michael for advice." She added, "He has a great sense of humor, and I think he's someone who is a cool head in a crisis." William has been known to be very close to the Middleton family over the years, often spending Christmas and Easter with them. Nicoll too claimed, "They would always stick together. They were a very tight unit, and they're still the same today."
The royal expert highlighted some of Michael's standout moments despite his generally private life outside the spotlight. She spilled, "I always remember his father of the bride speech on the wedding day and how he had everyone at the tables just in fits of laughter when he was recounting the story of William, who was training at the time as a helicopter pilot, buzzing in on the Middleton family home and sweeping in on his helicopter." Nicoll continued, "Obviously, as a father, thinking, 'What on earth is going on here?' while simultaneously realizing this was the future king of England really courting his daughter in a pretty spectacular way."
According to The List, William reportedly asked Michael’s permission for Middleton’s hand before seeking approval from the late Queen Elizabeth. He told ITV, "So I thought if I ask Kate first, then he can't really say no. So I did it that way round. I managed to speak to Mike soon after it happened, really, and then it sort of happened from there." During a shooting weekend at Balmoral, William pulled Michael aside and told him the late Queen had not yet been informed about the engagement. He asked his father-in-law to keep the news a secret until the Queen was told. He agreed and kept quiet, cementing his loyalty to the royal family.
Just last month, reports emerged that William may grant Michael and Carole Middleton special royal titles when he becomes King. According to the Daily Mail, English business tycoon Sir John Madejski previously called on the future monarch to consider awarding the Middletons coveted royal titles. If William chooses to, he may bestow his in-laws with new positions as the reigning monarch who has the power to make exceptions.