Kate Middleton 'Replaced' by Key Royal in Official Family Portrait
King Charles and Prince William attended the annual Royal Week in Scotland without Princess Kate, whose absence was notably felt at this year's Order of the Thistle ceremony. Despite the presence of all senior royals, her missing presence was evident.
The Royal Family shared the annual portrait on their social media platforms, featuring King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Prince Edward. The palace’s apparent attempt to fill the void left by the Princess of Wales, who is currently receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer, was highlighted by the inclusion of the Duke of Edinburgh.
In the portrait, the four royals stood together, dressed in the traditional green velvet robes adorned with the order's insignia and white-plumed hats.
"The King and Queen with The Prince of Wales (known as The Duke of Rothesay when in Scotland) and The Duke of Edinburgh following the Thistle Service at St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh today," read the caption accompanying the portrait.
For those unfamiliar, members of the British royal family spent the past week in Scotland, celebrating the induction of Camilla and Edward into the country's greatest order of chivalry since 1977. The biennial event honors 16 individuals, dubbed knights and ladies, with a personal appointment by the monarch.
The newly appointed individuals later attended a reception at the Signet Library and a luncheon at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, celebrating their prestigious recognition.
