Reports suggest growing tension between the two royal women amid shifting influence within the monarchy
The royal household is reportedly facing fresh tension following Catherine’s return to public life after her cancer treatment. According to insiders, her renewed presence has unsettled Queen Camilla, leading to what some describe as the most strained relationship between two senior royal women in years.
Sources close to the palace claim that Camilla feels increasingly sidelined as Catherine’s confidence and public visibility continue to grow. “Camilla worked hard to establish her place after years of criticism, and she doesn’t like the idea of being overshadowed,” one insider told Radar Online.
Observers say the Queen Consort’s discomfort stems from Catherine’s polished and composed return, which has been widely praised as poised and “very queenly.” This has reportedly made Camilla uneasy, especially as she had taken on additional duties during both Catherine’s and King Charles’s health battles last year.
Now that the Princess of Wales is back in the spotlight, courtiers believe subtle signs of rivalry are emerging. These are said to appear in event assignments, media coverage, and even the tone of palace briefings. “You can feel the competition,” one aide noted.
Despite the rumours, Catherine is believed to remain focused on her health and responsibilities, avoiding any suggestion of rivalry. Still, palace insiders suggest that the royal household feels increasingly divided, with Buckingham Palace revolving around the King and Queen, while Kensington Palace centres on the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Adding to the tension are reports that the Waleses plan to move from Adelaide Cottage to Forest Lodge, which insiders have dubbed “Wales HQ.” The King is understood to be aware that his son’s time to take on a larger role is approaching, though it remains to be seen how smoothly that transition will unfold.
