The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a new photo on their joint Instagram account. In celebration of Father’s Day, Kate Middleton has stepped in as photographer in the family photo. The new shot comes about 24 hours after the Princess of Wales made her first royal appearance of 2024. The couple shared a photo of the father of three with his sons and daughter for the special occasion.
The caption was written as though the post was from the children, reading, “We love you, Papa. Happy Father’s Day,” signed by Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The Princess of Wales is credited as the photographer of the image. In it, the four look out at the ocean on the beach, with their backs facing the camera.
While this is generally a very sweet gesture for a special occasion, like most things involving William and Kate of late, it got people talking. Many are calling to attention how different the tone of this photo is from past celebratory images of the family.
A Tone Shift Was Felt After in the Family’s First Public Appearance After Months of Big Changes
All eyes were on Prince William and Princess Catherine as they appeared with the kids at Trooping the Colour the day prior. So many people shared their elation to see Kate Middleton out and about and seemingly well, considering her cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, there were also many who felt something was different about the family of five.
Many commented that the kids didn’t seem as joyful as years past and that the vibes between the couple appeared somewhat tense. Of course, it’s been a difficult and tenuous year for the family, so some lack of jubilation is to be expected. However, the unease shared between them has people questioning what’s going on behind the scenes.
The Princess of Wales Shared That She’s “Not Out of the Woods Yet”
A day before Trooping the Colour, which celebrates the monarch’s birthday, the Princess of Wales shared an update on her condition, as well as a new photo, on Instagram.
In the caption, she expressed her gratitude for “all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months.” She noted it’s been meaningful to her whole family during tough times.
Next, Kate spoke about her condition more directly.
I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.
My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months. On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home.
I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet.
I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty. Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much needed time to heal.
Kate Middleton/Instagram
