For years, the relationship between Catherine, the Princess of Wales, and Queen Camilla has been perceived as amicable.
However, recent insights from royal insiders suggest that the reality might be more complex than it appears.
Despite their public displays of unity, there have been moments of tension that have raised eyebrows among royal watchers.
One notable incident occurred during the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla in 2023.
As the two prepared for this momentous occasion, it became clear that not everything was smooth sailing.
While coordinating their outfits, observers noted something striking: Catherine and several other royals did not perform a curtsy for Camilla during the ceremony.
This revelation sparked discussions among fans and critics alike, with controversial royal author Tom Bower weighing in on the situation.
Bower’s comments about the coronation footage ignited conversations about the dynamics within the royal family.
He pointed out that Camilla had invited twenty of her relatives to the event, while Catherine’s family, the Middletons, were limited to just four seats.
Notably absent were Pippa Middleton’s husband James Matthews and James Middleton’s wife, Alizée Thevenet.
Such seating arrangements led to speculation about whether the lack of curtsies was a deliberate snub or merely a reflection of royal protocol.
It’s hard to believe that Catherine, known for her poise and adherence to royal customs, would intentionally slight Camilla in front of a global audience.
After all, as the future Queen Consort, it would be out of character for her to orchestrate a moment of disrespect.
The absence of curtsies may have simply been a matter of royal etiquette, considering that while Camilla holds the title of Queen Consort, she is not the reigning monarch.
The coronation incident wasn’t an isolated event.
Tensions between Catherine and Camilla have been hinted at before.
Back in October 2021, rumors circulated about a strained relationship between the two women.
Reports suggested that Camilla, perhaps feeling protective of her royal responsibilities, was hesitant to share duties with her stepdaughter-in-law.
Some speculated that Catherine’s close bond with the late Queen Elizabeth II may have influenced Camilla’s feelings.
However, by early 2022, these rumors seemed to fade, with signs indicating a supportive relationship between the two.
One possible reason for the brief friction could be Catherine’s focus on her children and family, especially following her health challenges after a cancer diagnosis in early 2024.
With such personal matters at the forefront, it’s understandable that she might not be keen on taking on additional royal responsibilities.
The whispers about tension between Catherine and Camilla are not new.
In 2016, royal author Christopher Anderson made headlines by claiming that Camilla had interfered in Catherine and Prince William’s relationship during their early years together.
According to Anderson, Camilla viewed Catherine as unworthy of joining the royal family and was reportedly uncomfortable with the attention the couple received.
Despite these earlier claims, by the time of Catherine and William’s wedding, any past tensions seemed to have dissipated.
The two women were even seen enjoying lunch together prior to the big day, although Catherine’s choice of foie gras stirred some controversy due to King Charles III’s ethical stance against the dish.
Nonetheless, this lunch served as a testament to their ability to coexist peacefully, despite any previous rumors of discord.
As the royal family continues to navigate its way through public scrutiny, the dynamics between its members remain a topic of fascination.
Catherine and Camilla’s relationship, marked by both camaraderie and tension, reflects the complexities of royal life.
While the world watches closely, it’s clear that the story of their relationship is far from over.