I could spend days analyzing the body language between Duchess Kate and Prince William. But I won’t. But a picture really does say a thousand words, huh? Anyway, as we heard last week, poor William and Kate were in such desperate need of a vacation that they just had to jet off to Balmoral, the Queen’s estate in Scotland. Apparently, the Queen’s staff were alerted and ready to tend to Will and Kate’s every need. Poor overworked sausages! Alas, vacations have to end at some point (BOOooo!) and so Will & Kate’s press office is working overtime to remind everyone that they are still working royals and they DO have some kind of schedule. *hair toss*
Pregnant Princess Kate is starting to make up for some lost time. Kate, 32, missed a series of royal outings due to her severe pregnancy sickness – but now she’s got a set of upcoming appearances that are sure to excite royal fans. When she emerged from the Hyperemesis Gravidarum that blighted her first trimester, a palace source told PEOPLE that Kate was looking forward to getting back to helping charities close to her heart. And SportsAid is one of those.
On Nov. 12, she is expected to meet young athletes who are Tokyo 2020 Olympic hopefuls as they take part in advanced performance assessments at a workshop run by the charity in west London. Before then, on Saturday, she and husband William are scheduled to visit an oil refinery that has been a major industrial employer in the area around Pembroke, west Wales, for 50 years.
Later that day, they are expected to watch the national sport – rugby – as Wales takes on Australia in the capital, Cardiff. William, 32, is vice patron of the Welsh Rugby Union. It will be a welcome return for the couple, who enjoyed living in the country for more than three years until last September.
After recently returning from a weeklong babymoon in Scotland, the couple will also likely make an appearance Sunday at the official commemorations for Britain’s injured and dead servicemen and women at the Cenotaph.
So many appearances! So overworked. Someone’s going to need a nice long second and third babymoon in the Maldives. So, basically, Will and Kate will be very visible this weekend and then Kate will do a solo event a week from today. And if they make it through all of that, it’s looking like Kate will definitely be well enough to make that glitzy trip to Manhattan later this month, right? Meanwhile, I read this piece about William’s “first job” with a lot of eye-rolls:
Being a prince isn’t exactly all play and no work. In fact, in the memoir Chatsworth: The Housekeeper’s Tale, author Christine Robinson reveals that Prince William completed work experience at the Derbyshire estate for two weeks after graduating from university in 2005. Prince George’s father was only 23 at the time when he was busy making sausage rolls and mince pies along with the rest of the staff just four months after receiving his degree.
The author dished to Hello! magazine about William’s time there, saying that “he spend a week dressed in overalls, drinking tea and eating fish and chips with the rest of the housemen and joiners.” That’s right…no butlers, no custom-tailed suits, no perks of royalty whatsoever!
“We were staging a ballet in the theatre but discovered the stage was too short and had to be extended. William was carrying planks of wood through the shop dressed in workmen’s clothes.”
And understandably so, people were a bit wary of the new guy after he stepped foot onto the property.
“The look on visitors’ faces was priceless. Most obviously thought to themselves, ‘That joiner is the double of Prince William,'” Robinson shared. “When two old ladies came straight out and asked him, he admitted he really was the heir to the throne. He was, of course, charming.” (But of course!)
That wasn’t the first time that the Duke of Cambridge took part in work following his studies. The 32-year-old has since interned at several financial institutions including the London Stock Exchange, the Bank of England and Lloyds of London.
Yes, William worked at one of England’s grandest estates for… two weeks. Then he did some internships, all of which lasted a few weeks. Then Sandhurst, then the RAF, then the second “gap year” for a Cambridge “bespoke program” plus lots of vacations and now he’s “studying” to become an air ambulance pilot for a commercial company. He won’t officially start that job until next spring. What a life, eh? I’m not denigrating his military career – I think he probably loved his RAF work but William has always been… moody. And it often feels like he’s too busy fighting against his royal role so he’s never really explored what would make him happy. All we really know about his pilot work is that it’s an excuse for him to not do royal work. And I suspect that’s the major reason he does it.
Photos courtesy of WENN.
What happened to Will? He used to look good, now he looks like an younger version of his father and uncle.
And we shouldn’t judge their vacations, being so rich and so royal is VERY stressful.
someone (on a previous BRF post here on Celebitchy, i think, many many posts ago? i think when they’re theorizing about George’s look?) hypothesized that it’s that inbreeding genes, no matter how much ‘hybrid vigor’ they try to introduce to the bloodline, there’s just too much dilution to be solved in a few generations: the Windsor gene lay dormant until their 30s or 40s. so they can grow up Spencerian, Middletonian, whatever, then suddenly: horse genes!
Nah,
I think it is just the strenght of the genes from the Bowes-Lyon heritage of the Qeen Mother. Both Elizabeth’s father and uncle were quite good-looking, even in old age.
Arthistorian: definitely Windsor Genes, not Bowes- Lyons genes. Andrew and Eugenie look like various Bowes Lyons with just a smidge of Windsor thrown in. if you google the QM as a young girl…..Eugenie!!!!
The rest have very strong Windsor (Hanoverian) genes.
Charles and Harry get their looks from Queen Mary with strong Mountbatten mix.
HM/Margaret strongly resemble their father, George VI.
Prince Michael strongly looks like King George V (and his Russian Cousin Tsar Nicholas)
William started out looking Spencer, but now looks all Edward, who has a strong look of King George VI.
The great grandchildren, bar PGtips, all variously resemble HM/Margaret.
Some people called the Queen Mum a great beauty… I tend to think that any highborn lady was referred to that way simply out of politeness and respect. Based on photographs I would not call her attractive.
I think both William and Harry have retained a dash of Spencer which makes them a bit prettier than they’d otherwise be. William in the blue eyes of Diana, and Harry in the fiery red hair and spunky demeanor.
The Prince Harry / Queen Mary similarities are surprising. Yes, there’s Spencer in him, but lots of the Windsor side too.
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/10/25/article-1222921-06F63B34000005DC-217_634x355.jpg
http://img2.timeinc.net/people/i/2011/specials/prince-william/lookalikes/prince-harry-660.jpg
Juliette: I quite agree, however QM was a very pretty teenager. This is the age that Eugenie resembles. Once QM hit her 20s, she became very plain.
Pretty sure it all goes back to the family of Alexandra of Denmark, who married Edward VII.
Juliette – spot on re: QM.
(I always thought Diana’s beauty was extolled to such an exaggerated degree because of her “rank”, too.)
However, I would disagree that the QM (or Diana, for that matter) wasn’t attractive.
By definition, a person who attracts other people, especially the opposite sex, IS attractive.
So, it seems it was quite the opposite: based on reports about her youth, she was VERY attractive.
She just was’t beautiful or even pretty.
Mel,
You’re spot on: attractiveness isn’t the same as beauty – it is often connected to charisma. There are plenty of beautiful people that might be attractive in a general, physical way but not in a charismatic sense. I think that the media often confuses attrative with beautiful.
Fx, Daniel Craig isn’t conventionally handsome be he exudes raw sex appeal. Then there are people who are attrative because of their personalities. However, their attrativeness is mostly something you see when you meet them in person.
Totally agree about Daniel Craig. He makes me think of meat sandwiches . . . and I’m a vegetarian.
Interesting, royal gene watchers, and yes to the sexiness of Daniel Craig!
Charles is starting to look good in his later years, all silvery haired & all. And he & Camilla have been having a great time in Colombia. They actually express their joy.
I noticed this as well. Looking at photos of their most recent tour, they give the impression of having a jolly old time. It’s a marked contrast to the dour, strained mood that seems to emanate from so many photos of William.
It’s also kind of remarkable / refreshing to me how well Charles is able to at least appear to not take himself too seriously, at least in the context of public appearances.
OK I have a verrry bitchy comment to make (but this IS Celebitchy, so): Will just looks like an awful person. I know, I know, I don’t know him, etc… but I am a believer that your character gets written on your face as you age, and man has he aged quickly. Why anyone would think it is a special treat to see him at an event (or his wife) I really don’t understand at all. They aren’t glamorous, they aren’t charismatic, and they don’t even look like particularly pleasant people (unlike his brother, who comes across as a fun and chill guy).
This ^^^^
I feel this way about him too. People are always criticizing Kate but I have to say–people, we are LUCKY she took him. I can just tell (especially by those pictures above) that he is always a pill and its probably a lot to put up with.
Just abdicate already so we can have a good King (Harry) who loves us and loves England instead of one who sees us as an annoying burdeon.
I think the UK would have been luckier if he’d found someone like Mathilde of Belgium. Mathilde wears the pants in that royal family and her husband is a much better man because of it. Not only has she shown him what a loving home life can be like, her dedication to her role has made him grow into this royal role.
@murphy, I’m afraid it’s already too late for your King Harry plan to work. Even if Wills abdicates on his first as King (don’t forget there is King Charles before King William), the crown would go to King George with the current bun in the oven as first runner up. Harry drops further and further down the list with each successive Doolittle-little.
•Dara•
Not necessarily true. It depends on how they word the abdication (only used for a Sovereign) or if they passed a law for someone to ‘step out’ of line of succession. It is entirely possible to exclude William’s entire line — even more so if someone requests it.
Wow, so it can be a ‘voluntary’ thing? Would that ever be allowed after that other guy (whathisname, married Wallis Simpson – sorry, American here). Didn’t that scandal ‘rock the monarch to its very core’ or some such? Frankly, I thought you guys were probably better off without him so it worked out for everyone.
That actually gives me hope, although I have no skin in the game. I think Charles might be a decent-enough king – but with a shorter reign than his mum. Gives everyone enough time to see that Wills is just not that into it and to tag Harry as replacement. Or maybe the bros have already had that conversation and not shared with anyone. Explains why Harry has been picking up more royal duties, even though he’s 4th in line (did I count right?) and falling fast.
The whole affair with Edward VII and Wallis Simpson was quite the scandal – for several reasons, some of which only have come to light recently.
Wallis Simspon was married when she started her affair with Edward, and a divorcee, which was not accentable in royal circles. During the reign of his father George V divorced women were not allowed at court.
From her letters we now know that Wallis didn’t really want to marry Edward. She wanted to stay married to her second husband while being Edward’s “official” mistress and possible a power behind the throne. Such an arrangement was not acceptable to neither Edward nor her husband. She divorced her second husband and Edward was adamant that he wanted to marry her, something that the government wouldn’t accept.
However, a lot of things have recently come to light that paints Edward’s abdication in a more complicated light. He was deeply distruted by his own government because of his political sympathies with the Nazi regime in Germany. Wallis’ similar sympathies also cause grave concerns in this respect.
After his abdication, he and Wallis made an unofficial visit to Germany in 1937 and they were very impressed and charmed by Hitler and his regime. It is still debated whether he actually did a Nazi salute during this visit. Both he and Wallis thought that Hitler was a great man – something he actually said in an interview that has been suppressed until recently.
He also served with the British army during the retreat from France in 1940. He abandoned his post during this and fled to the south of France with Wallis. Something that any other soldier would have had to satnd trial at a court martial for, and quite possibly being executed for. During WWII he and Wallis resided first in France, then Spain and Portugal – and everywhere they went they surrounded themselves with fascists and fascist symphatisers. Eventually Churchill had to threaten him with a court martial if he didn’t return, and he was immediately shipped off to the Bermudas.
The FBI files on him and Wallis have recently been opened and they paint a very unflattering picture of the couple. The American government was incredibly suspicious of them and they were under intense surveillance. A suppressed interview has also come to light where he stated that Allies couldn’t win the war and that the defeat of Hitler would be a sad thing for Europe.
I think despite all the scandalous nature of it David and Wallis had a great love story at its core. And while it would still be tabloid gold it’s also fairly common incident to incident. We may not know it know, but in time things always get revealed.
And the woman’s style was ahead of its time.
Regarding the WW2 Hitler part. My family that did serve in WW2 in Germany had said whatever outcome wasn’t going to be a victory. The world was torn. Nations against Nations. Hitlers army seemed so vast and unstoppable to those in the thick of it without intel coming their way on progress. I think hindsight is huge here. Then it showed a lack of faith as the bulk of opinion. Or he was just being a realist.
To everything else… Damn I wish Churchill was still around to do crabby straight talk. What would he say to William? He has to be my favorite subject of biography and the history surrounding him.
ArtHistorian/Florc: this wasn’t a love story. This was a woman. Who was trapped by events and David.
Her letters to Mr Simpson after the marriage to David show as much.
As ArtHistorian says, she wanted to be the ‘mistress’, was quite happy to remain ‘the power behind the throne’. She rather enjoyed the power she had over David.
Unfortunately for her and her marriage to Mr Simpson, David developed quite the obsession with her and forced the issue especially when she was publicly outed as the mistress.
He forced the divorce, with Ernest arranging to be ‘caught with a mistress’ so Wallis could divorce *him* on grounds of adultery.
She then fled to France (arranged by friends of David) to wait out the divorce proceedings and the crisis that was engulfing David.
She never, ever wanted the abdication and urged him to stay. He refused, insisted on it.
According to her letters to Ernst as well as her friend Diana Mosley, this was possibly the worst day of her life.
However, once it was done, she took on the burden of David, but she wrote to Ernst several times that she wished they were still married.
LAK
They still remained together. And most realistic retelling of love stories aren’t so rosetinted. There must have been something between them to last. She might have been bitter and regretful of the greener grass, but that doesn’t (for me) negate any possibility of love.
*crosses arms*
I think he probably loved her more than she loved him. I don’t doubt that she had affection for him but her letters do tell a very different story of their affair and her feelings about it up to the abdication and their marriage. I do think that both he and she were come across and unsympathetic and slightly repulsive people (their racism, especially his was extreme and revoltingly expressed). However, no one can deny that she had great style – sophisticated and elegant, especially in the 30s. He also gave her some absolutely stupenduous jewellery.
Regarding WWII.
It may realistically have been seen as an insurmountable cause. That didn’t keep people from fighting it – my country was occupied by an overwhelming military force and resistance was discouraged by the government. That didn’t stop it though. Members of my family were active in the resistance and I’ve met a lot of people who were active as well. His defeatist attutude was frowned upon by the government and suppressed in print because it was unhelpful, even damaging to moral during the conflict. He was in fact in favour of the Blitz since he saw it as the only way for Britain to capitulate!
However, his fascination with fascism is documented to have been established well before the war. That’s was what worried members of the cabinet so greatly. Most of the canny and astute politicians and observers scented a political and possibly military confrontation with Germany on the horizon already in 1936-37 – and for them it was quite rightly a grave concern that the head of state was so admiring of the new regime in Germany. They weren’t sure of his loyalty to Britain. The last English king who was thus mistrusted by his own government was James II and he got the boot in 1688.
•LAK•
•ArtHistorian•
•Florc•
Wallis was not in love with David. At all. She thought his obsession with her would eventually pass (as did all the courtiers beccause this was his pattern). His pattern (true of the whole aristrocracy) was to have a married woman as mistress. She liked the thrill — so did her hubby. But even before he ascended the throne, David was becoming a bit much for her to handle. I think everyone hoped that becoming king would kick David in the a$$ enough to find an appropriate bride and get on with business. As we all know, that didn’t happen. David was such a putz and totally not suited to reign. And Wallis ended up being stuck with him until the end. She even had affairs after becoming Dss of Windsor and David pouted and threw fits so she stopped the affairs. Ernst was her true love but was faited to be married to a perpetual man-child.
And I haven’t even touched on the fact that the government totally thought David had screws loose. His political beliefs were only half of it too. There’s very few people in history that I actively dislike and David is for sure one of them. Lord ‘Dickie’ Mountbatten also shares that coveted honour with David.
ArtHistorian
I agree. You don’t simply bow down when the odds are too great against you. When you subtract the fight out of the human spirit what is left seems like cowardess. Even if it’s only calculating the numbers and if the war is winnable from that perspective.
On another note I find it fascinating how David had these personal feelings that were not shared by those near him and his post. Would they have ever come out if he never abdicated? The ability to shield the public from truth has always amazed me.
And while a few did see a new german regime forming it didn’t help who was the messenger of that news. If I had to deal with a bloated drunk with a cigar telling me how to do my job in the most rude manner I might be dismissive also.
LAK; FLORC; Lady Slippers What an amazing read! Dear Art Historian; I forget myself in your writing, I am carried away in your thought. I would read ANY book that you wrote!
Florc: what Ladyslippers said.
Further, theirs was a generation that didn’t divorce, despite Wallis’s own divorces. Being burdened with the man who gave up an empire for her was Wallis’s punishment. She had no choice, but to marry him after all that. And then she had the burden of keeping him. Yes, he had a settlement from his brother and personal wealth to boot, but she had to maintain his royal dignity and status no matter that they’d been exiled and *that* according to letters and friends was a never ending burden to her.
As for Mr Simpson, he remarried, ironically to a friend of Wallis, but died a few years later, so whether he loved Wallis or not, time was never on his side.
Well, I’m well backed into a corner of reason and fact so I can’t go any further. I just had an image of such love there. Much more in love with the image than the reality. In the end i’m a hopeless romantic. And in every relationship I think must have some form of love. Or love at some point. Not just lust.
I maintain the woman (and david) had flawless taste in jewels and enjoy he coffee table book I have of just that 🙂
Wolfpup
This is a great example of how much these thread comments suffered without the Lovely LAK, LadySlippers, and others that have returned. I was thinking the same. The comments can be great reads here. It sets the site apart from the rest imo.
Tell me this isn’t stunningly gorgeous jewelry. That the colors and tones aren’t perfectly aligned and displayed. Ugh. I want replicas!
http://theroyaljewelrybox.blogspot.com
Hi FLORC, I think we all wanted Wallis and Edward to be the love story of the 20th century. I mean look what he gave up for her. Abdicated. If that isn’t a romance novel plot, I don’t know what is.
PBS just had an interesting show last Sunday night about him, Wallis and their Nazi leanings. His letter indicate he wanted to come back and regain the throne in an Adolph Hitler dominated Europe and wanted Germany to win the war so it could happen. Churchill didn’t trust him as far as he could throw him.
There’s also some gossip that the reason the Queen Mother was so anti Edward and Wallis was less what it did to her husband, and more that she wanted to marry Edward and only took George VI when Edward refused her.
Florc: When i first heard about the Wallis/David love story, around the time her jewels were being auctioned, i thought it was the most romantic love story. EVAH!!!! And then i started devouring every book/biography etc about them which showed me what a terrible thing it had been for Wallis. Nevermind all the other reasons David was a wastrel.
oh well, at least we have fabulous jewellery and fashion to look at. and i think her fashion holds up 🙂
Dear Wolfpup,
Thank you very much for the kind words! *blushes*.
I’m a total history buff (jewellery nut) and I’m fortunate my field allows me to indulge my interests. I did my BA dissertation on the jewels of Rene Lalique, who was one of the most consummate craftsmen of his period. I did my MA dissertation on the portraits of Elizabeth I whom I have been fascinated with ever since the movie with Cate Blanchett.
I only have one article published in English (the rest are in Danish) by I have very serious ambitions of publishing more in English, primarily in art history but I do have a secret ambition on writing a book of the history of the tiara and a biography on the tumultuous life of Leonora Christian, daughter of Christian IV.
FLORC,
In a documentary on Cartier they interviewed a lady who bid for one of Wallis’ brooches at an auction. She lost the bid but then had Cartier make a replica of the Flamingo brooch. It wasn’t one of the better pieces. However. the rest of her jewellery is gorgeous. Some with huge canary diamonds. My favorite is the Van Cleef and Arpels ruby and diamond necklace and the gorgeous pearl necklace she was given by Queen Mary.
Ruby Necklace:
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/472807660853875449/
A brooch, mostlykely Van Cleef and Arpels due to the “serti mysterieux” of the rubies:
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/472807660853490402/
Her emerald engagement ring:
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/472807660853007092/
The pearl necklace:
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/9218374210353888/
Lastslip. Dara
+1m
Good points – Wills Line would include PG and spare. Will and Waity could become another. Wally if not divorced before. (Waity is Wally S give all the peoples luxury with no devotion nothing back).
We all assume we will have King Charles but the scary part is HM could outlive the POW.
Powerful institutions and aristo protectors of the monachy. HM legacy. Traditions for centuries – no little regular middletons will be allowed to disrespect al that time history. Lady Di POW was one of their own and she was -divorced- the middletons Waity is no. Lady Di.
King Henry!
Late to the jewelry party!
Wallis’s jewelry stood out imo because of the use of color in the gems. Truly stunning. And not just jewelry, but as ornate decorations.
I’m with you all. It had the making of a true forbidden romance. I shouldn’t be shocked the image given isn’t always what is seems. And until somewhat recently the top argument against Wallis was she was twice divorced american that did not know their social circles/ladder/culture.
On a positive note Churchill never disapointed me. He was a straight forward grump that looked past the bs to see true intentions.
After all the politics is set aside the relationship did have the makings of a wonderful love story. The fashion was very modern by todays standards. And the jewelry to this day stands as some of the best.
And the ruby and pearls. Amazing!
Yes their body language is very telling. Hands folded in front of crotches, six inches between them at all times…. “Don’t touch me, I can’t even look at you!”. I was amazed at the comments about how in love they seemed during the AuNZ tour, they looked like frenemies to me. Palace PR really, really wants you to believe that they are close, but…. They’re clearly not.
NO WAY were they ‘in love’ on the NZ/Aus tour! I saw them on two separate days and he definitely looked annoyed with her (she does this thing where she gazes up at him, and whispers, to which he just ignores her). She’s definitely more into him than he is with her. I mentioned this on the Mama Mia site (Australia) and got banned!!! LOL!!!
CAVEAT: The following comment is about the posted photo above only!!
I don’t think we can read too much into body language in that photo. They were at a formal diplomatic event. Not the place for leaning in and whispering sweet nothings to each other!
As far as leaning in and whispering sweet nothings, what an unprofessional thing to do. Yet we see Kate make poor choices time after time. How many times has she shown her nether regions to the whole world? She doesn’t care what the world thinks. I think we will continue to watch her do as she ppleases, making the BRF look like a joke.
Bill should reign her in but he doesn’t. So he is no better.
Bluhare
Agreed. Moments in time can’t fully capture everything.
It’s fairly rare though to see a photo or moment on video of William looking adoringly at Kate. She gives him those looks.
And there are times when they pose with other royal couples. Those couples hold hands, stand closer, smile. W&K stand apart, hands crossed, and maybe a grin.
And that happens at formal gatherings.
i wonder if it’s just BRF and British stiff upperlipness. i always think that the continental couples, like King Felipe and Queen Letizia still looks very affectionate with each other even during diplomatic events. Another one i think have good synchronicity and comfortable body language with each other is King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, although they do look a bit more like an old married couple who has learned to anticipate each other’s moves with little discreet morse-code gestures only they know the key to.
bluhare – ITA that whispers of sweet nothings are not appropriate during their appearances but that hasn’t stopped Kate in the past. In this video she is suggestively licking her lips at William.
http://colormecambridge.tumblr.com/tagged/she%27s-right-you-know
That’s just….gross; no sense of decorum. She must think she’s at a bar.
Those gifs are easily misread. I won’t say that’s damning without knowing the full scene and context. Maybe there was ice cream?
The leaning in and whispering sweet nothings was an example of affectionate body language, no more no less. I don’t think we can gauge the state of their relationship at a formal diplomatic event was my point and not meant as a springboard to how inappropriate some people think they are all the time.
FLORC-Ice cream, that’s funny. Yes gifs can be misread and also edited for the purpose of deceiving but in this instance I don’t see any other interpretation than the one I gave.
There is a gif on tumblr that was edited to make it appear as if Wm was scolding Kate during a walkabout at their pre-wedding visit to St. Andrews. I found the original gif on youtube and comparing the two of them it was obvious the tumblr one was edited by zooming in on K&W cutting out an elderly woman and a few others participating in the discussion. Viewing the zoomed out gif with the other people in the frame gives better context and to me it was absolutely clear W was definitely not berating K.
bluhare – As an FYI, I do not believe they are inappropriate all the time.
MinnFinn
At least you’re objective about it and not damning their every move. Those who do that remove all credibility imo.
There needs to be a balance and a greater respect for her role at these events. How she sometimes appears immature at them makes me wonder if she knows how she should act. what her role is. Not to just dress and show up. They did not put together the event for them. W and K should value they get to be a part of that event.
The body language to me is more of a closing off the world, not just the spouses. Very reserved, very circumspect, very inward-directed unless ‘among their own kind’ (& I’m guessing here, but I imagine once they get some drinks in them at a party, they’re a little more loose).
I see that too Hazel. William especially seems reserved and quite frankly cold. On the other hand, I think what everyone is seeing is that Kate is more interested in “playing the game” – i.e. playing up the “fairytale” romance and love story. Her body language is very doting, very submissive, and very interested in William. In real life I think they have a status quo worked out. Kate spends a lot of time with her family, and Will spends a lot of time with his friend Jecca.
Does anyone put any stock in the reports that Kate ran home to Mama because she and William were having marriage problems? I know part of her reason for being there initially was her morning sickness. But she was still there when she apparently was turning the bend and making appearances again.
I’ve read reports that the Queen was the instigator of the Balmoral trip to get William and Kate back on track with their marriage. They were told to kiss and make up. I have no idea how true this was report was but I curious as to what the general concensus is.
@ Juliette – very astute comment. That’s my reading of the situation as well.
We’re seeing the contrast between how Kate would like people to perceive the situation, and how their dynamic actually is. It’s an awkward disparity, and it shows.
@Bethany – I’ve wondered the same thing, and commented in a previous thread about the amount of time Kate has spent with her parents since the pregnancy was announced. Immediately after she did the 3 back-to-back engagements recently, she went right back to Bucklebury. A few days later, she and PW are off together for another “babymoon” as the tabloids called it. They’re living arrangements are totally baffling.
Bethany
I doubt the Queen suggested that. There’s just too much history supporting she would never suggest anything like a romantic getaway or alone time for a couple that could always be alone together if they chose to.
And I doubt Kate runs home to her parents for anything. I think she just goes when William is away. It’s her comfort zone. She’s with her family until William returns for her. I’m not judgy on this either. It’s only irksome when the press tries to claim William is caring for her or they’re enjoying their newly renovated homes when twitter has already exposed otherwise.
There was a comment by one of the columnists that said at one point Kate had to make appointments to see William. This was after they married.
Not sure if it was ever true though?
FLORC I also think Kate goes to Bucklebury mostly when Wm’s gone and it’s definitely not her style to run back there when she’s irritated with Wills. Kate’s MO was and still is ‘she’s there (i.e. physically present) for Wm’. During their 10 year courtship and now after marriage she is vigilante about tending to and guarding her prize whenever he chooses to spend time with her.
Someone
I remember reading something like that, but forget if it was valid. I remember dating a nutritionist and had to book an appointment to see him. Although, we weren’t married so it doesn’t really seem defendable. If the guy wants to see you he’ll make time. And if he’s truly busy you should understand you have him for your life. No need to schedule meet ups.
He worked for two whole weeks once? Whoa. That’s a tough row he has to hoe, isn’t it? No wonder he needs so many vacations. After a trauma like that…? He’s lucky not to have been left permanently disabled.
I just had a thought, though:
I think that Queen Elizabeth should bring Satan’s Homegirl over to whip the two of them into shape. She knows how to squeeze the “work” hours out of her offspring and she knows every angle to get the money too. Why, Waity and Willnot, under the firm thumb of Pimp Mama Kris, would be earning their keep in no time flat.
@Frida_K “Working Up with the Windsors”.
Haha!! “Keeping Up With The Kambridges”
LOL!
“Only 23”.
Hahahahahahaha. In the UK, all 15-year-olds at state schools have to do one or two weeks of work experience with a local firm (or a less local one if they are lucky enough to know someone at a posh place who will nanny them for a week).
Will had just the 8 gap years before doing his, then? Snigger.
Yeah “only 23” is odd wording for any culture. Unless you’re referring to early retirement 23 is an appropriate age for most adult experiences. Like having a job.
And that’s why Wills’ behavior is what it is today. Two weeks work experience here, two there (I believe he also worked on a farm), his military training shortened (all royals get this shortened training, those of equal rank have to spend longer); that’s all he knows, all that’s ever been required of him, & that’s the pattern he’ll repeat for the rest of his life. Two weeks’ work, then off to this country estate; another couple of weeks, then a different country estate. This does not build character.
•Hazel•
Sandhurst doesn’t make caveats for ANY one, including Royals (and they get more than just British Royals), they make a point to state that. Repeatedly. Even children of top government or military officials have washed out. Royals too.
No, William did get special treatment. There was a mini uproar over getting a specialized shorter pilot training with the excuse being he had royal duties -and then he went skiing. instead.
Also, I’m fairly sure that when the voicemail scandal was going on, it came out that William, unlike the other cadets, was allowed to leave Sandhurst for little personal trips here and there.
OMG @ Natalie!
I never knew about the special shortened training and the off-campus jaunts Privileged Prince William felt entitled to take. He’s such a shirker.
Juliette – is he really with Jecca?!
•Natalie•
How you worded it implied Sandhurst not pilot training — make sure you qualify it so there’s no confusion 😊. Pilot training still needs a minimum number of hours so my guess is they might have tailored it — but that it still allowed him to meet those minimum requirements (if you’re correct they probably condensed stuff). Those requirements are safety mandated not just fluff crap.
Sandhurst does allow candidates to go off base after the first five weeks or such. The program is over a year long so it’s essential to keep them on base for the intensive first portion of the course. After that it’s not quite as strict.
im sorry but there are alot of video’s of them on that day laughing and joking together. i heard a journalist once say that they pick pictures with their story to want to write and that is doesn’t mean that the true story is written i guess it’s true. it gets a litlle boring to read the same thing all the time,
There are a lot of videos of Will ignoring, scolding, and coldly instructing his wife. They may be able to get along for moments at a time but their separate lives, demeanor, and, yes, body language tell a different story.
Whoa — is he like that to her? That’s horrible. Well, that explains why she is aging so terribly too, despite the fact that she is rich and pampered. Chronic stress is very, very aging. What a crappy person (Will, I mean).
Sopo
The aging is likely more from dehydration, lack of body fat, genetics, sun, and smoking. When she puts on weight she looks younger.
I think that’s more likely since her mother and sister are aging the same way and have not lead Kates life. On top of Kate knows William. How he scolds, what he does. This is nothing new to her.
•wrong•
Not sure it’s worth bringing up counterpoints as many don’t want to hear them.
I’m no longer bothered either way about these two, I stick with the older crowd. But a truly disinterested comment does occur to me…..William looks more strained in every new photo.
It’s all been thrashed out here, about various levels of reluctance, pouty ignorance, whatever etc, but the fact remains, imo, that he looks like a man who’d rather be anywhere/ anyone but this. I wouldn’t wish that on anyone, regardless of material recompense. I hope someone has his back….he looks to me like an emotional crisis waiting to happen.
.So I wish him peace of mind, at least. (Not diverting thread to discuss this, it’s all old hat I know)
I’d love to hear them? Ladyslippers. I click these threads for the comments.
Not only does he have resting grumpy face, he’s got constant grumpy face. One wonders how he controls the urge to do a massive eye roll a hundred times a day. The words “be careful what you wish for” come to mind vis-à-vis with Kate.
He has never concealed that he doesn’t like the prospect of being king. When he commented on his grandmother’s queenship in an interview he constantly described it as a burden. That really says it all – no one is eager to taken on something that think is a burden. Feeling like this I certainly understand that he might not be in a good place emotionally – seeing his future in a negative, possible grim light is very depressing. However, he does have the option to step down though that would need some legal work. I don’t think such an option is impossible or improbable. But I doubt such a possibility would be brought up while his grandmother is still alive. The abdication of her uncle was a huge family trauma.
@chris2 I totally agree. He married someone who is just like him…he doesn’t want to do royal duties, and she doesn’t, either. I think the marriage was kind of a ‘screw you, I’ll do what I want’ to the Royal Family because Kate has given ZERO indication that she wants the job of being a leader and inspiration to her country and the world. Why would she sign up for a job like that if she didn’t really want it?!
He seems like he’s in a state of perpetual arrested development. He can’t really decided what he wants to do when he grows up. They bore me. MORE HARRY.
AH, that does not bode well for the monarchy, when next but one would rather be doing anything but. That’s my issue with the two of them. I don’t care about their relationship particularly, but I do care about how their actions affect the future of the monarchy. In this day and age, it is a bit out of touch, but it can be such a unifying thing for the country and I hate seeing William pound nails in its coffin.
bluehare,
I completely agree. Today constitutional monarchies are very much dependant on public perception and on the manner in which its members comport themselves. A reluctant monarch is a HUGE problem in this respect. A monarch who sees his office as a burden is certainly not inspiring.
At present my country has a Queen that sees her office as a privilege and a responsibility. It is quite obvious that she enjoys her office and her contact with people. In an interview she even said that she found it very nice when people sometimes yell “hello Margrethe”. She is, however, very firm with the press when it comes to the proper address.
I hope we have her for a long time yet, but I am certainly curious about what kind og king Crown Princes will become. He’s quite easy-going and has a lot of resemblance to his grand-father who was very charming, esay-going and “folksy” to a certain degree, So I think that he’ll do fine but that he will be a very different monarch than his mother.
He had a period where his future role and its constraints depressed him (he was 18-19 at the time) and he received a lot of criticism because he appeared reluctant and uninterested at his engagements. However, he was quite young and seemed to get over it fairly quickly. But it is certainly a feeling that I can empathize with. I think that his marriage has made him much more comfortable with his role – he has troubles with public speaking and his wife seems to have been a big support for him.
I wish that I didn’t like these two so much. When they were first married, I opened my browser to the Duchess Kate blog first thing, everyday. I was properly excited for Will & Kate and wished for their happiness. But it was so annoying to listen to women on that site who were rude to anyone who was critical of the Cambridge’s. They made it *personal*, and attacked anyone who didn’t have a high and mighty view of them. “I was there” said she was banned (up thread) for having the wrong opinion – well, it seems that’s what happened to me too. Being a “good girl” is just so hard!
I think that the royals feel so sure of their position because it would be nearly impossible to lose it. Royalty will not be abandoned by the lords, banks, and corporations who are the wealthy in Britain. Money always talks… Also, there is the connection between church and state. I wonder about England, is there really an “upstairs/downstairs” kind of mentality? How does status work? How seriously does it effect day to day life? No offense to anyone, but I find this idea so demeaning to humanity…no wonder that there is almost a continual smirk on these royal faces.
Am I getting something wrong? Of course I want to “h8e” on these people for believing in such an awful idea. It horrifies me.
I get what you’re saying. I think the Brits are very attached to their monarchy because of all the history that goes with it; and, I have a feeling they want to keep the real thing. No “pretenders to the throne” or anything of sort. It just doesn’t make sense to me though. I’m not sure if I don’t like the idea living under a monarchy or because the British monarchy seems sooooo outdated. I will say, however, that I fully enjoy the pomp and circumstance because I don’t have to pay for it.
Thing like these making sense to many people is very much due to historical continuity, tradition and feelings of national identity.
I live in a country that has had a continuous monarchy (in different political incarnations) for more than a 1000 years. The monarchy and the monarch plays a specific role as a national symbol of unity, and the present Queen understands this part of her office very well.
I work with issues of nationalism and national identity academically, and a key issue is the ways and metaphors in which the nation is imagined. Countries like Denmark, sweden and Britain fx has built a national identity constructions in terms of language, country and historical continuity. A monarchy is just such a figure of continuity. That is mainly due to historical circumstances. However, what’s important is what the citizens of a given nation invests emotionally in the idea of the nation as a community, however imagined it might be.
A country like USA builds its conception of national identity on different elements and metaphors – and the break from the old world and its social structures appears to be a crucial element here. One could say that the idea of USA is imagined on a break with the past, rather than a deep historical continuity. France is a rather curious example – the break from the past with the Revolution of 1789 plays a very big role, but at the same time they celebrate a longer historical perspective because has a long history as a well-defined state.
Art historian: Yes, we in the USA do know that we were ‘designed’ as a country under the banner of ‘the new’ and bucking tradition and inequalities of a monarchy. We also have a very strong archetypal energy of the hero’s myth-that one person can and should rise and claim his/her destiny, success, etc. And that traditions are not the number one loyalty-rather, freedom and self determination are. That said, it’s still perplexing to us (even with knowledge that there is cultural bias/preconditioning) how modern, progressive and highly intellectual countries can organize around a monarchy institution. France seems to have also chosen to redirect its monarchy focus (as a foundation for national unity) and placed the focus on its cultural achievements, combined with a sense of ‘being French’ and its history. They have also used their revolution as an organizing principle, similar to how formerly colonized nations do (including the USA). So their identity is defined by a common goal that was the revolution.
lrm,
I find subjects such as these fascinating and can spends hours reading up on it. I’m very interested in what binds communities and nations together. And it plays out on many different levels and in many different ways.
I’ll just share a couple of examples from my own country. The Queen’s birthday is always a very cheery event. A lot of people assemble at the Palace square and cheers her with the national flag when she waves at the balcony. At my grandmother’s nursing home all the residents watch it on tv and have coffee and cake. This doesn’t mean that we are submissive subjects but rather this event let people come together and feel part of a larger whole. All sorts of national festivals and commemorative events serve such a purpose. In my country some of them revolves around the monarchy.
Another example is the Queen’s New Year’s Speech, which is transmitted in the early evening on December 31st. This has become an entrenched tradition, just like popping the champagne cork at midnight and singing the national anthem after the stoke of 12. I have never ever been to a New Year’s party that doesn’t start with watching her speech. At that very moment thousands, if not millions across the land is watching the same thing, hearing the same words. That is another example of how a national community can be imagined in time, experience and space.
It isn’t just platitudes that she offers either, there have been times where she has gently admonished the nation, fx on xenophobia. She doesn’t do this in a political manner but reframes the question in terms general kindness and humanity.
I much prefer having a non-political head of state that isn’t embroiled in political divisions.
I also wish to issue you a gentle correction because part of your comment read a bit patronizingly. A constitional monarchy isn’t the primary, organizing principle of states such as Britain, Denmark, Holland, etc. A constitutional monarchy is in fact a democracy where people have the same rights and priviliges in republics. The monarch is a non-political head of state, largely a ceremonial position as well as a national symbol of unity.
Regarding my country, Denmark, one of the organizing principles is the idea of the welfare state (to avoid confusion I must point out that this doesn’t mean the same in Danish as it does in English – it is quite impossible to find an adequate translation). This means that not only does the citizens have duties and privileges towards the state, the state also has duties and responsibilites towards its citizens – such as free healthcare, free education as well as an obligation to help citizens who suffer hardships. We pay more in taxes than many other countries but we are also not ruined if we lose our jobs or get seriously ill. I got an excellent education without paying astronomical tuition fees and my family would certainly have been bankrupt if not for the free healthcare. My mother is seriously ill and that has often required long hospital stays (up to 6 months) as well as a lot of very expensive medication. Furthermore, she is not eligible for any private insurance since that is often the case with mentall illness. The idea behind this is community and solidarity. It is by no means perfect but that is the guiding principle. There’s a saying in Danish: “The widest shoulders carry the heaviest load” – meaning we all pull together without leaving the less fortunate people by the wayside. I believe in this idea even though it is certainly not perfectly realized. Me and my family as many others have received many benefits that have lifted us up from poverty. Self-determinations means a lot, but it is also important to recognize the social and economic structures that can hinder certain part of the populace to reach success. Fx I’m the first in my family that has completed gymnasium (high school) and the first with a university degree. I’m naturally suited for this kind of academic work. Thankfully, both my parents were very supportive. The rest of the family thinks I’m an idiot because I don’t work with my hands. As said education is free and every student doing a long-term degree gets a small government stipend as well as student loans at a favorable rate – that meant that neither I nor my parents had to stretch few resources to finance me or my sister’s education. I see it as the state investing money in my education with the perspective that I’ll eventually repay that investment in terms of work and tax money. We’re a small country and mind-capital seems to be more and more important for the economy.
I understand why you as an American can be quite puzzled by our way of organizing our society, but rest assured many people on the other side of the Pond are equally as puzzled by the American way.
Wolfpup – down among the lower ranks, there really isn’t any forelock tugging or great interest in the class structure. You know? It doesn’t consume us, as others seem to think it does. It’s only really in those top echelons where anyone thinks twice about it.
Some of us are aware there is a wealthy elite owning all the power and money but those are the people who also realise that, say, the United States has exactly the same wealthy elite owning all the power and money, just without the silly titles.
Class doesn’t affect daily life or attitudes very much in the UK. Of course, concentration of wealth does, but we don’t go about thinking about whether we’re posher or more common than our neighbours or colleagues or our children’s boyfriends and girlfriends. We sniff over our chavs, like the US sniffs over its Kardashians. We put up with the spoiled entitled idiots among us, like the US puts up with its talentless children of celebs or political or corporate dynasties. It’s all pretty much the same. We know the world, not just the UK, is blighted by nepotism of all descriptions.
HH – and yes, the traditionalists among us like the sense of history and ceremonial of the Royals in particular. I’m not one of them, but I get it. And it can be very difficult to explain that Britain is a representative democracy in which voters have exactly the same opportunity to affect political policy (ie not much) as US voters do (not much). A constitutional monarchy is nothing like an absolute monarchy.
Sixer — As an American observer, it puzzles me when Brits say class doesn’t impact or interest non-U’s because I regularly see media reports asking regular folk for opinions after meeting Kate. And the kids always comment on Kate’s lovely. posh accent which indicates they have learned to distinguish and value upper class speech.
Also on the tv show Ellen, a Brit child who used to be regular guest (Rosie) looked ashamed (my interpretation of her response) when another adult Brit guest commented on her northern UK accent.
1. Upstairs, Downstairs was a great soap opera. I have to full series boxset:)
2. Whatever happens I hope William doesn’t take his role just because he can. I hope he accepts or denies it because he’s dedicated to it.
And right now “William” and “Dedication” are not words commonly or correctly used in the same sentence.
3. If he did abdicate down the road the gossip fallout would be a new level of trash talking.
A while back, on a previous Kate thread, we were having a discussion about the fact that Will seems to be living his life, but Kate seems caged and stunted (by her own doing). This gave me a different take on William constantly taking up different jobs and going on trips away from his wife. Kate seems to go back and forth from her parents to her own home. I don’t see any evidence of interaction with friends. I have a feeling that if Will didn’t have activities that took him away from home, Kate would spend every moment with him. That would be exhausting. Yes, couples are supposed to spend a lot of time together, but a healthy couple (made of two emotionally healthy individuals) needs time apart. My friend is a SAHM and even with a newborn and 3 year old she enjoys when she gets to have the house to herself while her husband is at work. They are as close as can be.
Now, this isn’t to make excuses for William. I still think he’s dithering around when it comes to fully engaging in royal duty. However, I do think there are other reasons to consider him taking up “jobs” on a regular basis. I think he needs a valid reason to not be at home. Perhaps Will is creating necessary space.
Thoughts???
HH I think she has it pretty good and no one needs to worry about the poor thing being caged or stunted. Seriously she has a blank cheque to shop to her heart’s content. Come and go as she pleases to see parents, etc., vacation several times a year and oh yes, a team of minions at her beck and call. She can do her 3 hour daily gym workouts or shop all day if she so pleases–that’s what nannies are for. With regard to friends, maybe she simply doesn’t,t want/have many….
In regards to her shopping, hair appointments, working out, and other activities, I have no doubt that she likes all of that stuff. But, I think the frequency at which she does them (and long hours spent on them) has a lot to do with the fact that she has nothing else to do. While she goes on many vacations, who is she with? William and/or family. Only. I don’t have any issue with people not wanting/having *many* friends, I just don’t see any evidence that Kate as ****ANY**** friends. That’s very… odd. Borderline disturbing.
Interesting. Could be he’s bored with her already. With the exception of clubbing, and the addition of a baby & few more galas to attend, her life is pretty much as it was when they were dating.
That could be also be it! I’m just trying to pose an alternate narrative that I found interesting. Instead of the idea that they are truly leading separate lives, maybe William is a creating the much needed space that regular couples have. Most couples have at least 8 hrs/day away from each other. I have a feeling that because Kate doesn’t *seem* to have anyone else (but family), she clings to William in an unhealthy way. Perhaps William is attempting to create some sort of legitimate distance by doing all of these jobs and bespoke programs. I say “legitimate” because if he was indeed just hanging out with his friends nonstop, that would probably be seen as rude and unnecessary.
HH
That really depends on the persons and relationship dynamics.
My husband and I both work. When we’re not working we spend almost all of our time together. We see friends together and seperately, go running, cycling, hiking, picnics. Do chores. Things of that nature. Not for time away as much as the other is busy elsewhere or doesn’t want to do it.
Other couples can’t stand to be around eachother for too long. When left alone together personalities clash. Hating the way they chew or close a door. Some enjoy staying home and waiting for their spouse. Some can’t stand being idle.
Maybe Kate spent so much time being focused on William she is content waiting for him to return to her. And maybe William is a it tired of being around someone who follows him like a puppy. Not since Canada do they seem on the same page.
Now, regarding Will. I think he enjoys his time as he likes. To not be tethered to another or their schedule. Isn’t that why he talks about his royal duties as such a burden? Because he’s accountable to those not himself? His time can’t be spent as he pleases. He must do as other dictate. Maybe when he feels his lack of freedom (that he’s accustom to). After all. For William being catered to and doing as he pleases with little backlash is his norm. I think we forget this.
@FLORC – I think what you’re saying aids my argument. Even when “regular everyday” couples spend time together, it’s their “downtime.” They have at minimum 8/hrs a day that they don’t see each other and are interacting with others; they have their individual friends, and friends of the couple. All of this probably makes time with each other more special. As the saying goes, “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” I’m just not convinced Kate would ever have that absence. I have the distinct feeling that if William didn’t create these other activities Kate would spend her every waking moment with him. Whether that’s out of want or necessity (ie. no other friends) is a different matter to discuss. Nevertheless, that idea is scary. I’m ridiculously single right now and would love to be in a relationship, but even I can’t imagine not having time to myself.
HH
Kate’s behavior has always reminded me of a friend of mine. She can be clingy until her bf says she’s clingy. Then she finds an activity like going to the gym or running. That’s what she does away from him, but her motivation for doing that is him. Her life in 1 way or another is built around his approval, acceptance, whims.
I’m i’m not sure absence and the heart are so true. For a time FMORC would be away on business trips. And when he wasn’t I was traveling for work. When we did meet back we sort of had to relearn how to be with eachother again. We had spent so much time talking on the phone, but pretty much living alone. For me that saying isn’t true. I don’t think i’m alone in that.
And you always find a great match to you when you’re not expecting it 🙂
Yes, I agree… Two people cannot sit home alone and stare at each other all day. Back when nobility didn’t even pretend to work, men usually went out riding, hunting, visiting, and women would “rule the roost” setting up parties, ordering dresses, linens, food, generally tending to the house. I think William and Kate are living a life very much in that strain. The activities that Kate enjoys are mostly solitary (or done with staff): going to the gym with her trainer, going shopping with her bodyguards, going to the salon to be pampered, decorating with her decorators. William enjoys the life of an old fashioned landed gentleman. He goes to hunting parties, he travels around, he makes social visits.
In today’s world, the landed gentry are struggling to make ends meet and make massive estates self sufficient. Those people don’t have time to cater to William. He’s taking it back to the centuries-old burden of the royal coming to visit, taking your resources, and then moving off to the next estate to suck them dry. Only in William’s version it is things like free rent in Mustique, free trips for hunting on the estate in Spain, etc.
Great point! I think Will and Kate are living that lifestyle, but as I mentioned above I think Kate’s solitary activities are out of necessity. I think she’d welcome William’s company or the company of friends. But she doesn’t have either. All the activities that Kate does are things people can and often do with friends. My point is I’m not convinced that Kate’s solitude is as healthy or benign as it seems. I don’t think she’s a loner.
@HH
I don’t disagree with you. Kate’s solitude is disturbing, and probably the reason she spends nearly all her time living with her parents. I think she’s very isolated. Even the tabloids go out of their way to call her protection officers her “friends” – they are paid to be with her! I wonder whether William is controlling, Kate is paranoid that anyone besides her family will betray her, or a combination of factors… Or perhaps, people just don’t like her.
Juliette
It’s been said Kate had her own friends, but lost them when she prioritized William over all others. This was pretty bad since William did not prioritize her. I can see friends falling out over that.
There have also been hints if not outright claims Kate isn’t too nice. Her and Pippa had a reputation of being big snobs.
I think we all hope she has friends. That she has social contact with someone not related to her or paid to be around her.
@Juliette – I’m also not sure if it’s Kate not wanting friends or being unsure if how to make them, which sounds silly but I don’t know how else to explain her solitude.
Well, the way I see it is that Kate shunned any of her friends who wouldn’t play her little game. She had her sights on William and William only. That’s really the end of the story.
HH: during the l-o-n-g dating period, he often broke up with Kate repeatedly due to feeling suffocated by her (also other reasons, but needing space was a recurring theme). Let’s not forget the infamous declaration,”i’m Free’ to a club full of strangers after 2007 breakup. In the engagement interview, Kate talked about being consumed by the relationship and how the 2007 break taught her to let go (a bit).
So I tend to agree with your analysis that if it were upto Kate, she’d spend every moment with him. Him, not so much as we can see.
@LAK – I see that repeating in the marriage. I always thought Kate didn’t “do her own thing” because she was busy chasing Will. Now, I’m not sure what the issue is.
What it sounds like to me is a serious imbalance of power. William has it all, and she has none. If he doesn’t want her any more, she’s gone and loses everything, including her child if she doesn’t toe the line. I see someone who will drop everything if she has to in order to keep William (and what he provides to her) in hr life.
HH I totally disagree. We don’t know their schedules and how they are in private. They were together for years before marriage so I believe they ironed out alot of the wrinkles in their relationship. They appear very comfortable with one another to me. I think he’ll make an awesome king, bring the monarchy out of the dark ages and surprise many who see him in a negative light. At least that is my wish!! He comes across as a very serious individual but in private who knows?
They did appear very comfortable in the Canada pictures.
But I have to ask. What about William makes you think he’ll be a great King and bring the monarchy out of the dark ages?A general rundown in my head of what dark aged stuff is still in the monarchy might not be things William could change.
I think like everyone else their relationship has ebbs and flows. I think Kate can be very insecure and I also think that they have forged a bond — one that she values a lot. Perhaps more than he does.
There were rumours floating at one point after they married, that if Kate wanted to see PW she had to be scheduled in. Not sure if it was true, but a columnist was discussing it as what some were hearing at that point.
One of the reporters was trying to explain to twitter questions about what PW has been doing lately. Even they seem to struggle with reasons why he never does much. The latest is, he’s studying for exams.
He and Kate do have a few events scheduled next week and then the big Royal Variety show filling in for Charles or the Queen?
But overall these two just don’t seem to do much.
His hair is unfortunate as well as his body posture. If he stood up straighter and smiled in a confident way he’d be 1000x more appealing. The whole world was waiting for him to be that handsome Prince with a mega watt smile and kind but take charge kind of persona. He just seems… tired.
+1 I agree about Bill’s shortcomings. He is just so…so…ordinary. Who wants an ordinary king? Royalty is supposed to be better than the rest of us, But in Bill’s case,I doubt he will ever become king in the way they have been in the past. Maybe a non reigning king like some royal houses in Europe, but never like his grandmother.
I think William wants to be king just like he’d like to have a tooth ache. I get the impression that he and Kate love the perks, attention and clothes. And she’s a media hound. Watch the photos-she always knows where the camera is located. He finds all the royal family duties annoying.
But they’re caught in a lifestyle that they don’t want to give up – vacations, money, glamour, etc. They do only what they need to do to keep up appearances. I think they wish the whole thing would just go away but leave them the money and perks.
@Bethany – I agree with you that they want the perks of their position but not the societal responsibilities.
I think he’s trying to revert back to the life styles of his ancestors pre-QE2 or even her father. Am I right to say that this sort of social activism by the BRF is a modern thing? Attending charity events, tallying up how many events each royal went to in a year, going around to the charities to shake hands with the ‘less fortunate,’ etc.?
I guess Will wants to be like his ancestors pre- early1900s. Yachting trips, African safaris, hunting parties, dinners, parties/galas, theater-going, etc. Like the life that King Edward VII had. You know. When it used to be ‘fun’ to be a Royal and you didn’t have to show up to work or prove that you’re worth the money taxpayers spent on you.
I don’t think he’ll become King.
They’ve never been ‘better’ than the rest of us. I say the emperor has no clothes, never had! Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain! Royals, phooey! And as for William being a good king, huh, I still can’t get over his wackadoodle ‘let’s destroy all the ivory artifacts in the Royal collection’.
anne_000. I think the public service aspect of the BRF ramped up with Queen “We are never tired and we all love hospitals” Mary (current queen’s grandmother). She was also the premiere royal magpie when it came to jewels.
Suffice it to say, I am not impressed with either of them. There’s nothing they’ve done in the past, nor anything current that they’ve done, that is even news worthy or significant. Such a waste considering the potential both positions have to do something for the people there in the UK.
Totally agree.
+ a million
Kate and Wills wouldnt need to look far to find some inspiration on how to take on a royal role – William could ask his Aunt Anne and his Grandmother. Kate could take a look at the other European royals, including Queen Maxima of the Netherlands whose interests and committment is impressive – she manages to combine motherhood with a very busy lifestyle trying to make a difference to the lives of the people of the Netherlands. And she can look pretty good too.
I honestly don’t believe Kate has the capacity to focus on endeavors outside her usual range of activities that include all the things mentioned here by others–shopping, planning dinner parties for family, decorating, etc. She may have had good intentions when she accepted the “job” along with the marriage proposal, but her ability falls short of the task. How else can it be explained that she takes no positive cues from other royal women, especially CP Mary and Princess Charlene whose family backgrounds and upbringing are somewhat similar to hers?
Kate doesn’t appear capable of learning from others. Much has been said about her inappropriate ‘work’ clothing, which has been attributed to her never having had a proper job. That never made sense to me. She has long interacted with women who work–her mother for one, Party Pieces employees, for others; then, of course, there are those women who’ve worked on William’s staff, women with whom she interacted on her shopping excursions, etc. If she were capable of learning through observation, we’d’ve seen a different Kate long before now.
We could all be working scrubbing toilets, but we are not.
We don’t have to and we choose the path of the most money and ease….
As for knowing a true calling and persuing it, well not even princes get that luxury.
Whoever told PW that there’s a patronage that consisted of going to football games should have gotten a big bonus. Because really. He gets credit for ‘working’ just by attending a game.
What next? A patronage that only requires Kate to go to the hair salon or a boutique to try on dresses? Nice work if you can get it.
Very busy work schedule for them. Short trip to a refinery then reward themselves by kicking back at a football game. Then a few days later, go to a gym and shake a few hands. Guess they’ll earn that NYC trip.
Well, it beats staying at home, shaking hands with the sick, the downtrodden, the addicted, and the basically needy.
“Being a prince isn’t exactly all play and no work.” Nope!
“Being a prince isn’t exactly all PAY and no work.”
There. Fixed it.
*golf clap* Nice.
These two really make me rage!!!! I don’t think they even care about making it obvious that they care nothing for their roles, the monarchy and his own grandmother. Didnt something just come out about how a charity cancellation coincided with they day they took their vacation? Argh! Nasty pieces of work. And this coming from someone who adored Prince William a few years ago and Kate. Now they irritate me so much.
Williams passive aggressive and obnoxious nature makes my blood boil.
I totally agree!! I’ve worked in the charity sector and knowing how difficult it is to get media coverage and raise funds, they could do SO much more!!! It’s disgraceful.
I spend more hours each week helping in the community volunteering as a Girl Guide leader than they do with their charity/not-for-profit work and it’s supposed to be their job!!!!!!
I remember a few threads way back where we all shared how we’re involved with charity. Many of us here do something, We research before donating and often donate our time while maintaining full time jobs and family life. And we look at the podium Kate has and get all ragey at how it’s squandered.
Currently it’s charities regarding expecting mothers and severe morning sickness. She could step up and tell us how she’s also struggled with that. A few galas and a few preprepared speeches. That’s all it would take. 3 or 4 hours a year.
A coworker of mine said this won’t happen because she’d have to claim herself to have had hg and that would be a can of worms if her symptoms and appearance didn’t back it up.
+1
Agreed. I do as much charity work as them, and I don’t get super expensive clothes out it …
Regarding the “worked for two weeks” thing: this is a great example of how, sometimes, it’s better to just not say anything. That’s not impressive. That’s pathetic that anyone thinks that is something to tote as an accomplishment. My goodness. He’s even more entitled than some ridiculously spoiled trust fund kids I know.
Hm, I didn’t see anything unusual about their body language. They are at an official function and they just being polite. Whenever you scan pictures of political figures meeting with each other, including when the husbands are there with their wives, they look pretty much the way these two look here.
You must have missed the Maxima and Masako pictures. Smiles, laughter, and handholdings were the norm for the cameras and poses.
And there are a few photos out there that show the Cambridges clasping their own hands and standing apart. Right next to the other couple(s) in the photos are holding hands looking cute.
Masako? The wife of the emperor of Japan? Was she holding hands with Naruhito?
May23
Not them to my knowledge. Other couples. I cannot remember which 1, but it wasn’t too long ago.
Maxima and Willem always hold hands and hug each other. All the younger royal couples do it, except William and Kate. Even Letizia and Felipe… and the spanish royal protocol is the strictest and most unmodern (especially when it comes to women) in Europe.
I remember the King and Queen of Thailand holding hands and looking so cute together. They are married for over 60 years.
may23, Masako is the wife of Naruhito (heir to the throne). Emperor Akihito is married to Empress Michiko.
@FLORC You said “Masako” – I couldn’t imagine anyone from Japanese Imperial family holding hands during official functions and be all lovvy dovvy
May23
Yes. I made an error and did say masako and maxima in the same line. It was in reference to the smiles and laughter though. I thought i made that clear in my response the hand holding was for other occasions with other royals. Let’s focus on that and not the error I attempted to correct and admitted to. To focus on a very obvious mistake is to avoid my main point.
Other royals do manage to smile, hold hands, laugh. William and Kate in same shots avoid those things at all costs. It appears very odd.
I wonder if Kate likes to read books? And if she does what does she read? I know she has graduated with good grades and all…
Just following in his father’s footsteps. What has old Charlie boy ever really done. Diane was the only royal with any substance to her.
The Prince’s Trust.
+1 LAK
Patron of the Welsh national side, hah! I doubt his nibs has ever scrummed down in his life. I bet Harry would make for a serviceable inside center though. He should marry a nice rugger girl to buck up the royal bloodline.
When they were in Calif. at the Polo event, there was a radio local reporter who said that when William and Kate were inside some tent or away from camera’s at the event, William seemed really ticked off about something and seemed very cold towards her.
The guy told the story on local la radio , he also said Kate was painfully skinny at the time and in hollywood that was saying something.
Quote: Prince George’s father was only 23 at the time when he was busy making sausage rolls and mince pies along with the rest of the staff just four months after receiving his degree.
Let me guess: After getting his degree Mr. Dolittle showed no sign of taking up any kind of occupation and therefore had his derriere deported to do some kitchen-and-waiting-tables experience in order to give him a taste of “real life”.
Another guess: William lost a bet and had to play the waiter at a pal’s country estate.
Murphy chris Notasug Arthistorian upstream thread
+1000
ArtHisto
At the Flanders Field ceremony – HM had a smile that one can go back and see PGTips made the same smile on AZ tour, I believe the day all three wore blue.
But for all P Willy training with HM POW for his role as monarch, he sure pick a mess of a family to marry.
From Waity who knows nothing about royalness to giving back to our country – GB UK Commonwealth to ma carole and padded bum sibling. Padded is on her PR adventure travelling from US to Swiss on this solemn weekend when her sister will be about with PWills. HM and the Royals paying respect. Yet she is all over the papers for gain – such disrespect!