Catherine, Princess of Wales, known to many as Kate Middleton, has captivated the world since she first stepped into the spotlight as Prince William‘s university sweetheart.
Over the years, she has seamlessly transitioned into her royal role, embodying the essence of a future queen consort.
But there’s much more to her than meets the eye.
Here are 35 fascinating facts about Kate that might just surprise you.
Born on January 9, 1982, Kate is the only Capricorn in the British royal family—a rarity in a lineage often dominated by Taurus and Leo signs.
Last year marked her 41st birthday, celebrated with three stunning official portraits.
Interestingly, her early years were spent in Jordan, where she lived for two and a half years and attended nursery school, a unique chapter in her upbringing.
At primary school, Kate earned the quirky nickname “Squeak,” inspired by a pair of guinea pigs, one of which belonged to her sister, Pippa.
This playful moniker is a far cry from her current royal status.
Her middle name, Elizabeth, holds significant royal connections, shared with both the late Queen and the Queen Mother, making it fitting for a future queen.
In an unexpected twist, Kate shares a distant familial link with America’s founding father, George Washington—she’s his eighth cousin, seven times removed.
This connection adds an intriguing layer to her already rich family history.
A lover of music from a young age, Kate was once a church choir girl, and now her daughter, Charlotte, is following in those melodious footsteps.
Her school days also saw her take center stage as Eliza Doolittle in a production of “My Fair Lady,” showcasing her flair for performance.
Interestingly, while many young girls had crushes on Prince William, Kate had a poster of a Levi’s jeans model instead, proving she was somewhat of a trendsetter even back then.
Athletics have always been a part of Kate’s life.
She set an unbeaten high jump record of 1.5 meters at her primary school, reflecting her sporty nature.
Today, she remains active, enjoying tennis and running.
Her educational journey is just as eclectic; she studied biology, chemistry, and art before pursuing art history at the University of St. Andrews, where she met William.
Kate’s time at Marlborough College, a prestigious boarding school, also intertwined her life with future royals, including Princess Eugenie.
After graduating with a commendable degree from St. Andrews in 2005, her university life was not merely academic.
She co-founded a female drinking society and enjoyed cooking with William, highlighting her fun-loving side.
Despite her royal title, Kate has grounded experience in the workforce.
She worked as a deckhand and waitress before marrying into royalty, proving she knows the value of hard work.
During her gap year, she explored Florence and honed her sailing skills, showcasing her adventurous spirit.
Fashion enthusiasts know the “Kate effect” well—whenever she dons an outfit, it often sells out quickly.
This phenomenon began when she wore a £40 Topshop dress for her 25th birthday, and today, her stylish choices continue to inspire many.
Kate’s culinary preferences are refreshingly down-to-earth; she reportedly loves sticky toffee pudding and enjoys a good pint of Guinness on occasion.
Her artistic talents extend beyond fashion; Kate is a passionate photographer, with her work gracing the covers of magazines and capturing family moments.
In her personal life, she embraces traditions, baking homemade birthday cakes for her children and indulging in binge-watching sessions of shows like “Game of Thrones” with Prince William.
Kate’s commitment to mental health awareness and various charities reflects her compassionate nature.
She is actively involved in initiatives supporting children’s mental health and addiction recovery.
Through her charitable endeavors and royal duties, she has carved out a significant place for herself in the hearts of many, embodying the grace and dedication expected of a future queen.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, is not just a figurehead; she’s a multifaceted individual with a rich history and a vibrant personality.
As she continues her royal journey, her blend of tradition and modernity keeps her relatable and beloved by people around the globe.