The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, was reportedly encouraged to alter the spelling of her name due to potential confusion with existing royal symbols for King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Although internationally recognized as Kate, her legal name is Catherine, a title used by most of the royal family, including her spouse, Prince William.
However, this name was once a point of contention with her father-in-law, King Charles, and his wife, Queen Camilla. Prince Harry reported that they suggested she modify the spelling of her name.
In his memoir titled “Spare,” Harry mentioned that the king and queen proposed that Catherine be spelled with a K instead of a C. According to Prince Harry, “There were already two royal cyphers with a C and a crown above: Charles and Camilla. It would be too confusing to have another. Make it Katherine with a K, they suggested. I wondered now what came of that suggestion.”
Prince William was present during the request to alter Kate’s name. Harry recounted his reaction to the proposal, stating: “I turned to Willy, gave him a look that said, ‘You listening to this?’ His face was blank.”
Even though Kate did not comply with the request, she reportedly maintains a positive relationship with King Charles and Queen Camilla, who acknowledge her potential influence on the monarchy.
The proposal to change Kate’s name highlights the thoroughness of the royal family, especially when it comes to public symbols and representations. The royal cypher, a sovereign’s unique monogram or emblem, is used on state documents, insignia, and other official items. Having too many similar symbols was viewed as potentially confusing, hence the suggestion to adjust the spelling of Kate’s name.
Prince Harry’s memoir “Spare,” released in early 2023, has been a wellspring of revelations about the royal family, offering a peek into their personal dynamics and internal dialogues. The book has sparked interest from the public and media, presenting less-publicized facets of royal life. Harry’s candid narrative gives a hint of the complexities and challenges that the family faces, even in what may seem like minor issues such as the spelling of a name.
Regardless of this unusual request, Kate Middleton is still referred to as Catherine within the royal family and Kate by the public. As the Princess of Wales, she performs various public duties and charitable work, earning widespread admiration and respect. The backing from King Charles and Queen Camilla underscores the cooperative ethos within the royal family, working collaboratively to maintain their responsibilities and public image.