Princess of Wales opens up on 'really hard' challenges in Royal Family

Ben McCaffrey
Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:06:56 +0000

The Princess of Wales offered a candid and honest glimpse into the challenges she faces at bustling royal gatherings during Tuesday's Buckingham Palace reception.

Speaking with guests at the event marking what would have been Queen Elizabeth II's centenary, Catherine acknowledged crowded occasions prove particularly demanding for her.

"I find these environments are really hard," she explained in footage captured and shared on social media.

"I've also got a very soft voice, so I always get told, 'Speak up a bit louder!'"

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The 44-year-old's frank remarks resonated with many and she has long been open about her reserved nature.

During her engagement interview in November 2010, she recalled her initial encounter with Prince William, admitting: "I actually think I went bright red when I met you and sort of scuttled off, feeling very shy about meeting you."

And during the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show in 2019, Kate reportedly took a timid young visitor aside for a private conversation in a small tent, confessing that she retreats to such spaces herself when feeling overwhelmed.

Catherine's transformation from a nervous newcomer to a confident senior royal was laid out by royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams, who told the Daily Express: "Catherine’s public speaking style has come a long way from her early attempts."

"Her speeches now reflect her natural charm and enthusiasm," he added.

She has previously described delivering speeches as "nerve-wracking", with those close to her recalling how she would visibly tremble before approaching the lectern in her early years.

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While Catherine has been continuing to establish herself as a central figure in The Royal Family, April came as a quiet month while the Cambridges enjoyed time off from official engagements.

The centenary reception honouring the late monarch, who was born on April 21, 1926, marked their return to royal action.

King Charles and Queen Camilla served as hosts in the grand Marble Hall for the rare gathering, which brought together virtually all senior working members of the Royal Family.

Princess Anne joined the occasion alongside the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Duke of Kent, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and Princess Alexandra.

Guests at the prestigious event included representatives from organisations that held Queen Elizabeth's patronage, such as the British Red Cross and Cancer Research UK.

Centenarians who shared their birthday with the late Queen were also present, with the monarch personally handing them cards and even singing a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday himself.