Experts Say William Embraces Kate's Popularity

Royal commentators say Prince William is proud of the public popularity his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, enjoys, contrasting his reported reaction with the jealousy long attributed to his father, King Charles III, over Princess Diana's fame. The comparison has resurfaced as William and Catherine remain among the most closely watched figures in the royal family, with their public appearances drawing significant crowds. Several experts, speaking in interviews published between September 21 and September 22, 2026, described William's reaction to that attention as markedly different from accounts of how Charles responded during his marriage to Diana. Christopher Andersen, author of "Kate!," drew the most direct contrast. "Rather than be jealous of his wife the way King Charles was jealous of Diana's popularity, William is more than content to let Kate shine," Andersen said. "In fact, there are times when he is perfectly happy to bask in her reflected glory." Andersen also described Catherine as the royal family's "Mary Poppins," saying she is "practically perfect in every way.