Queen Camilla’s rivalry with daughter-in-law Kate Middleton emerges to the surface as Prince William draws closer to the crown. After nearly two decades as a royal spouse, Camilla Parker Bowles eventually snagged her long-awaited chance to become Queen consort following the death of the longest-reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. However, with the recent health woes plaguing her husband, there has been heightened fears that Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton, who are in line to take over, may have to step in earlier than anticipated. Expectedly, the idea of that happening does not seem appealing to Camilla, but for reasons other than the dark implication.
Speaking to US Weekly, a source claimed the Queen consort always had a “tense relationship” with her daughter-in-law, making her less eager to pass on the mantle after King Charles’ passing. Aside from their strained relationship dynamics, the source claimed Camilla is reluctant to forfeit the title of “Queen” so fast having looked forward to it for years. The source divulged,
“She loves her responsibilities. Her whole life, she has always wanted to be queen, so she doesn’t want to let it go so fast.”
King Charles Deems Prince William His Rival Despite Close Relationship
According to sources, Camilla’s husband Charles shares her desire to hold on to the throne and enjoy their reign as long as possible. One source claimed that Queen Camilla’s rivalry with Kate Middleton also extends to King Charles’ relationship with his son Prince William. The source revealed that while the father and son are undoubtedly “close,” they remain “rivals” when it comes to their royal duties and perception in public eyes. They likened this father-son rivalry to the jealousy Charles’ felt towards the late Princess Diana’s growing popularity among the people.
The source clarified that while King Charles does not feel sidelined by his oldest son, who is destined to someday take over as the King of the UK and the Commonwealth, he knew how strongly the public anticipated “William’s future role.” Regardless, King Charles feels “more proud than anything” of his son Prince William. On his part, the Prince of Wales remains committed to making his dad even prouder, doing his best to become worthy of someday inheriting the throne. One source told the outlet,
“William and Kate have been preparing for this for many years. They both feel comfortable stepping into greater roles—and [are confident] William can provide a modern way of ruling that everyone will see as a breath of fresh air.”
Despite Queen Camilla’s tacky relationship with Kate Middleton, the two have had some remarkable moments since crossing paths. Kate is famously credited with making her husband Prince William more accepting of his stepmom widely regarded as the “third person” in his parents’ marriage. Camilla has proven her devotion to duties since joining the royal family and becoming queen consort, bridging the gap as the royals deal with their particularly chaotic year riddled with health challenges.
