Not Even the Luck of the Irish Will Bring Kate Middleton Back into the Public Eye
Members of the British public hoped to catch a glimpse of their future queen at the annual celebration that she has attended every year since 2012.
Both Prince Wiliam and Kate Middleton are reportedly sitting out this year's St. Patrick's Day celebrations with the Irish Guards. This year, Kate was to receive a special honor from the guards, feeling further speculation about her health, and unfounded theories around the Wales' marriage, and the family photo drama.
Kate Middleton takes her role as Honorary Guard quite seriously, which is one of many reasons she is an "MVP" among senior royals. At last year's celebration, the princess shared in a speech, “I am here to listen to you, to support you, and to champion you in all you do – this is a responsibility I do not take lightly." She made this poignant statement at last year's parade, expressing her commitment to support and champion the attendees. Given her responsibilities towards the Irish people, her absence has sparked curiosity. The announcement of her abdominal surgery in January came as a surprise to many, including those close to the Princess. Even some Senior Royals on her staff were not aware of the news.
Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Kate Middleton assumed the role of honorary Colonel of the Irish Guards in the previous year, a title her husband once held before he became Prince of Wales (he is now honorary Colonel of the Welsh Guards. With speculation mounting regarding the Princess of Wales' current location following a Photoshop mishap on Mother's Day, there were expectations for her presence at the St. Patrick's Day parade. However, Irish fans may be disappointed, as recent reports from People suggest that Kate will not be participating due to her ongoing recovery from surgery.
Despite their absence, the Irish Guards will keep the Princess of Wales in their thoughts, a source reportedly told People magazine, offering up three cheers and extending their best wishes to her during their celebratory parade at Mons Barracks in Hampshire later today.
