Prince William knows his wife, Princess Kate Middleton, is stunning.
As William, 42, and Kate, 43, left their joint appearance at the naming of the HMS Glasgow ship on Thursday, May 22, a waiting fan called the Princess of Wales “beautiful.” Once the individual got a glimpse of William, they added, “You too!”
William, meanwhile, jokingly downplayed the compliment.
“You don’t have to say that,” the Prince of Wales quipped in social media footage as the couple walked toward their waiting car.
William and Kate made a joint appearance at Thursday’s naming ceremony at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Scotstoun, Scotland. Kate also brought the nautical vibes with her outfit, looking pristine in a navy-and-white dress with a matching fascinator. William, for his part, opted for a classic suit.
The outing comes amid Kate’s sponsorship of the HMS Glasgow, for which she was appointed in June 2021. The boat is a state-of-the-art Type 26 anti-submarine frigate that can protect the U.K.’s nuclear deterrent and aircraft carriers. During their visit, William and Kate received a tour of the facilities and met with local employees.
Kate has steadily been returning to official duties after navigating an undisclosed form of cancer in 2024.
“The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown,” she wrote in a September 2024 statement, revealing that she completed her chemotherapy treatment. “With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything. This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved.”
Kate had battled cancer with her family, including William and their three children, by her side. During that time, she took a step back from her public duties. The duchess confirmed earlier this year that she was in remission.
“It is a relief to now be in remission, and I remain focused on recovery,” she wrote in an Instagram statement in January. “As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am, however, looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”