Carole Middleton has been a pillar of support for her son-in-law Prince William during what has been described as a “brutal” year, according to royal author Robert Jobson.
Speaking to Hello! Magazine, Jobson detailed how Carole was there for William and the royal grandchildren throughout 2024, when Princess Catherine underwent cancer treatment.
A 'solid as a rock' presence
“She was there to support William and was there all the time for the grandchildren. She's been as solid as a rock,” Jobson said.
“When everything was falling apart and he (William) needed someone to talk to, she was the one. She took him out to the pub and they would sit and talk. She's been a good sounding-board, a wise head.”
A sweet moment at Royal Ascot
Although the pair have rarely been photographed together, a moment captured at Royal Ascot in 2024 highlighted their close bond. William was seen holding Carole’s hand and helping her after her heel became stuck in the grass, with Carole smiling up at him as he assisted her.
This warm relationship has reportedly been evident for years, with William always having a close bond with his wife’s family. This was first hinted at when the couple became engaged in 2010, when Catherine’s parents, Michael and Carole, responded to the announcement with a statement read by Michael.
A long-standing bond
“I would just like to say that Carole and I are absolutely delighted by today's announcement and thrilled at the prospect of a wedding some time next year,” Michael said at the time.
“As you know Catherine and Prince William have been going out together for quite a number of years which is great for us because we've got to know William really well. We all think he's wonderful and we are extremely fond of him.”
William echoed this closeness in the engagement interview, saying: “Kate's got a very, very close family. I get on really well with them, and I'm very lucky that they've been so supportive.”
He added: “Mike and Carole have been really loving and caring and really fun and have been really welcoming towards me, so I've felt really a part of the family and I hope that Kate's felt the same with my family.”
Despite their busy royal lives with three children, William and Catherine still spend considerable time with the Middleton family, including holidays together.
