Why Didn't Kate Middleton Change Her Last Name After Marrying Prince William?
Fans wonder why the princess has chosen to keep her father's last name.
When Kate Middleton tied the knot with Prince William in 2011, she was widely expected to seamlessly integrate into the royal family, which she did in most respects. This much-adored woman appeared to have won the affection and respect of every royal, including the late queen.
However, some fans, unfamiliar with the royal traditions, were puzzled by Kate’s decision to keep her surname and even wondered if this move might undermine the dynasty she had married into. Here's why Kate has not changed her surname and why it’s no big deal for royals.
While it may initially seem peculiar that Kate didn't adopt a new last name after her marriage to Prince William, it wasn't an obligatory tradition for members of the British royal family. Therefore, Kate's decision to maintain her maiden name aligns perfectly with royal protocol. However, in official documentation, she is never referred to by the last name Middleton.
As per British royal tradition, members often use their title in lieu of a surname. Consequently, Kate is officially known as Catherine, Princess of Wales, owing to her husband's role as the Prince of Wales. Prior to their assumption of these titles from King Charles III, Catherine was known as Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.
In essence, the British royals aren't perturbed by Kate retaining the last name Middleton. She is primarily known by her title, not her surname. Further, the title of Princess of Wales is unlikely to be her last; as the spouse of a future king, she will eventually ascend to the title of Queen Catherine, with no last name required.
This convention is very common; Meghan Markle, for instance, did not change her last name upon marrying Prince Harry and is simply known as Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. However, unlike Kate, Meghan will never bear the title of queen, as Prince William's son is next in line for the throne.
While the customs and traditions of the British royal family can seem complex, their approach to surnames is relatively straightforward—keep your surname, embrace your title!