Royal roles for the Middletons may remain informal despite their close bond with the Princess of Wales
As Prince William prepares for his future as king, questions have emerged about whether Catherine’s parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, will be granted royal titles. However, royal tradition suggests this is highly unlikely.
Unlike some royal spouses of the past, Catherine was not born into aristocracy. Her parents, who first met while working for British Airways, have been warmly welcomed into royal circles but do not meet the customary criteria for receiving titles.
Although they may not hold official titles, the Middletons remain integral to the Wales family's personal life. Living just a short distance from Windsor, they play a consistent role in the upbringing of the children.
“Her parents are an enduring factor in the upbringing of their grandchildren,” a palace insider previously told People magazine.
The family’s bond is said to be strong—and competitive. Catherine’s brother James once shared that Prince William tends to step back when the family plays their favourite card game.
“William would give Ella [their dog] a good excuse to escape the fiercely competitive nature of the Middleton family, which emerges every time we play our favourite fast-paced card game, Racing Demon,” James recalled in his memoir Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life.
While they may not become titled figures, Carole or Catherine’s sister, Pippa, could be appointed as one of her official "companions"—a modernised version of the traditional lady-in-waiting role. Though not a formal royal honour, it would allow them to support Catherine in her public duties.
