Royal expert explains why Kate Middleton is the monarchy's biggest star today

Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle both have faced intense scrutiny while standing on one of the monarchy's most visible stages: The Buckingham Palace balcony.

Royal author Catherine Mayer told People Magazine about how generations of royal women have navigated the spotlight during Trooping the Colour.

She shared that the Princess of Wales has emerged as one of the royal family's most influential figures. "Kate is the closest they have to a rockstar member these days, and she’s the one everyone wants to see."

"She found her look and maintained it for more than half a century," Catherine added.

In particular, Kate's appearance at Trooping the Colour in 2024 marks most significant as per the royal expert. It marked her first ever public engagement after revealing cancer diagnosis.

Meghan Markle also experienced the pressure of royal life during her first Trooping the Colour appearance in 2018, just weeks after marrying Prince Harry. Especially her off-shoulder fit sparked widespread debate and criticism. "Everyone leapt on that. It’s catnip for the U.K. press," Catherine said.

Furthermore, talking about experience of Princess Diana, the royal expert said, "She had turned out to be a bigger star than the system could handle."

"She had this huge ability to draw crowds. On the balcony or anywhere, she was the focus of attention," Catherine said.