Kate Middleton becomes Princess of Wales after Princess Diana following Queen Elizabeth's death

 

King Charles III has announced in his first public address since Queen Elizabeth II’s death that his heir Prince William is now the Prince of Wales and his wife, Kate Middleton has been named the Princess of Wales, a title previously held by the late Princess Diana.

“Today, I am proud to create him Prince of Wales, Tywysog Cymru, the country whose title I have been so greatly privileged to bear during so much of my life and duty,” Charles said Friday.

"With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the center ground where vital help can be given." 

According to a royal source, William and Kate “are focused on deepening the trust and respect of the people of Wales.”

“Over time Prince and Princess of Wales will approach their roles in the modest and humble way they’ve approached their work previously,” the source adds.

“The new Princess of Wales appreciates the history associated with this role, but will understandably want to look to the future as she creates her own path.”

The duke and duchess have updated their official social media accounts to reflect the change in their titles, with the couple initially known as the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge following the Queen’s passing. 

Elsewhere in the speech, Charles made specific mention of his younger son, Prince Harry, and his daughter-in-law Meghan Markle, saying he expressed “his love” to the couple as they continue to build their lives in California after resigning from their royal duties. 

Charles will embark on a tour of the UK in the days leading up to the late sovereign’s funeral, which is part of the the nation’s 10-step “Operation London Bridge” plan. While he will not be officially named king until Saturday morning.