Kate Middleton Is the First Royal in History To Be Awarded This New Title

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Kate Middleton might not be attending royal events right now as she undergoes cancer treatment, but that hasn’t stopped her from achieving a major royal milestone. Earlier this week, Kate was awarded a new title — and she’s officially the first British royal in history to hold it. Although she’s still the Princess of Wales, this is just another honor she can add to her royal resumé, and it could be King Charles’ way of showing her how much he supports her during a difficult time.

The palace announced new appointments on Tuesday.

One of those appointments officially made Kate the Royal Companion of the Order of the Companions of Honour. She is the first member of the royal family to ever hold this title, so it’s a big deal for Kate to receive it. What an exciting moment!

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The organization dates back to the early 1900s.

As People reported, the Order of the Companions of Honour was founded by King George V in 1917. People named to the honor include those who have made outstanding contributions to the arts, science, medicine, and public service. Several recognizable stars have been named to this order, including Elton John and Judi Dench.

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Charles handed out other titles, too.

One was given to Prince William: Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, a role that has been open since Charles became king in 2022.

He also gave Queen Camilla the title of Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, an order that honors both military and civilian contributions to society.

 

Charles has been publicly supportive of Kate during this tough time.

As Charles battles his own cancer diagnosis, he shared a statement about how “proud” he is of Kate after she shared her health crisis publicly in March.

“His Majesty is ‘so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did.’ Following their time in hospital together, HM has ‘remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks.’ Both Their Majesties ‘will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time,’” read a statement from Buckingham Palace at the time.

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This year has gotten off to a tough start for the royals.

Our fingers are crossed that we’ll hear a positive update on Kate’s condition soon, but in the meantime, we’re hoping that she’s getting all of the rest (and the privacy) that she needs while she’s in treatment.