In a year marked by personal health battles and public scrutiny, Princess Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, has been nominated for TIME magazine’s 2024 Person of the Year. This prestigious recognition places her among influential figures such as U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, entrepreneur Elon Musk, and Russian economist Yulia Navalnaya. The winner will be announced on December 12, 2024.
TIME magazine acknowledged Princess Kate’s significant impact, stating she “made international headlines this year and stirred a conversation about privacy and health for public figures.”
Her nomination has drawn comparisons to her sister-in-law, Meghan Markle, who was considered for the same accolade in 2018 but did not receive the title. Markle’s nomination came during the peak of her public influence as a newly-minted Duchess of Sussex, celebrated for her advocacy on social issues and humanitarian efforts. However, the honor ultimately went to journalists and media workers championing press freedom.
The nomination, following her widely-praised return to public life after battling cancer, could reignite underlying tensions between the two royal women. Speculation abounds that Markle, who has previously spoken about feeling marginalized within the royal family, may view this recognition as another instance of Kate overshadowing her achievements. Royal watchers and commentators have long noted the public and private rivalry between the two, with their contrasting approaches to duty and public life often serving as flashpoints for media scrutiny.
The Princess of Wales’ health journey began in January when she underwent major abdominal surgery. Following months of absence from public duties, she revealed in March that she had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy. In September, she announced she had completed her treatment, describing the experience as “complex, scary, and unpredictable.”
Her return to public life was met with both support and controversy. During a Remembrance Sunday service in November, television presenter Narinder Kaur faced backlash after questioning Middleton’s appearance, asking, “Genuine question – why has Kate aged so much? Isn’t she only 42? Is she a smoker? It’s the only explanation.” Given Middleton’s recent health struggles, this comment was widely criticized as insensitive.
Despite these challenges, Middleton has continued her royal duties, organizing events such as the “Together at Christmas” carol service at Westminster Abbey. Reflecting on her year, she shared, “The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant, and we have had to find strength in unexpected places.”
This nomination adds to Middleton’s previous recognitions by TIME, including her appearance on the TIME100 list of Most Influential People in 2013 and being named a runner-up for Person of the Year in 2011. Royal expert Angela Levin supported Middleton’s nomination, stating that the Princess “has been through so much” and has spoken “so honorably and honestly.”
As the announcement date approaches, the public awaits to see if Princess Kate Middleton’s resilience and influence will earn her the distinguished title of TIME’s Person of the Year. This recognition could further elevate her profile while subtly deepening the rift between the royal sisters-in-law.