Resurfaced Clip Shows What Kate Middleton’s Parents Really Thought About William: ‘We’ve Had…’
A recently resurfaced video from 2011 has rekindled public affection for Kate Middleton's parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, as it showed the warmth and unity that has long defined their relationship with Prince William. The old clip, now trending again on Instagram, shows her parents reflecting on their daughter’s engagement to the Prince. Michael’s message at the time captured both his joy for the couple and genuine fondness for his future son-in-law.
View this post on Instagram
Michael’s words were the window to what the Prince of Wales means to them: “Carole and I are delighted, thrilled by the prospect of a wedding next year. Catherine and Prince William have been together for several years. We’ve got to know William well. We all think he’s wonderful and we’re extremely fond of him. They make a lovely couple. They're great fun to be with, and we've had a lot of laughs together... we wish them every happiness for the future.”
This rare public insight confirmed that for the Middletons, William was so much more than a royal; he was another much-loved family member. Beyond the endearing words, there’s a deeper narrative about influence, support, and legacy. Carole’s role in shaping Kate’s philosophy as a mother is well-documented. Kate has often reflected on her happy, supportive upbringing and credits her parents for instilling the hands-on, grounded approach she carries into raising Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
The Middletons have remained an active presence through all of Kate’s milestones, attending the royal wedding, each christening, and regularly joining the family at their country home, creating continuity and comfort for the Wales children even as their royal duties intensify. The dynamic between William and his in-laws is equally notable. Even before his marriage, William was regularly welcomed at the Middleton home in Bucklebury, blending seamlessly into their relaxed and loving environment. So much so that a body language expert upon analyzing William's behavior around Middleton's parents said that he is considered a 'calming influence' on the entire Middleton family.
This closeness has continued over the years, often highlighted in moments away from the formalities of royal life. As William and Kate take on more royal responsibilities, especially with King Charles’s health concerns, questions arise about how their evolving roles may affect those closest to them, including Carole and Michael. While there’s admiration for the Middletons’ years of support and their parenting influence on the Wales children, it’s unlikely, given royal traditions and the absence of aristocratic heritage, that they will be granted any royal titles when William is King.
The reigning monarch holds the power to make exceptions, but royal commentators say such honors remain improbable, despite public calls, including from business figures like Sir John Madejski, who once suggested they be named Earl and Countess of Bucklebury. Nevertheless, the possibility remains for new positions, such as Carole serving as an official companion to her daughter if Kate becomes Queen Consort.