For as long as Kate Middleton and Prince William have been married, they have been known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, a title appointed to them by Queen Elizabeth II herself. But now, after the death of Her Majesty at the age of 96, what the Duchess’ new title be?
Immediately following the death of Queen Elizabeth, the former Prince Charles instantly ascended to the throne at King Charles III. And once that took place, it meant that Prince William became second in line to the throne after his father, leaving Kate with a new title as well.
As for what exact title Kate will hold, it will all depend on the title that her husband William will be granted. Essentially, William could become the Duke of Cornwall and Duke of Rothesay, which are titles that have been held by the former Prince Charles, following Queen Elizabeth’s accession to the throne in 1952.
But what does this all mean for Kate? Well, she has become the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duchess of Rothesay to take Camilla Parker-Bowles‘ place.
According to royal expert Iain MacMarthanne, Kate could still hold the title of Duchess of Cambridge, but might not commonly go by the title.
It’s also possible Kate Middleton could become the Princess of Wales, a title previously held by Princess Diana. This depends on whether King Charles decide to pass on the title to his son, William. Unlike the other, more immediate title changes, the Prince of Wales title isn’t inherited but traditionally passed down when the former Prince of Wales ascends to the throne.
While technically Camilla became the Princess of Wales after marrying Charles, she didn’t use it publicly, instead choosing to be known as the Duchess of Cornwall.
Since Princess of Wales would be Kate’s highest title, it is also possible that the couple could decide to no longer be referred to as the Cambridges, and could decide to become known as the Waleses instead.
However, we won’t know any official decisions until formal announcements are made soon.
For more rolling coverage on Queen Elizabeth II’s death, follow the links below:
- Queen Elizabeth II Has Died: A Look Back At Her History Making Tenure
- Here’s What Happens Next In The Wake Of The Queen’s Passing
- A Brief History Of Queen Elizabeth II And Her 89 Year Long Royal Clan Of Corgis
- Will Duchess Camilla Be Queen Now That Charles Is King?
- Every Time The Royal Family Have Turned To Queen Elizabeth’s Vintage Wardrobe
- The Surprising Reason The Queen Always Wore Mint Green For Special Occasions
- Everything We Know About The Queen’s Funeral So Far
- Will Prince Harry And Meghan Markle’s Children Be Prince Archie And Princess Lilibet Now?
