The royal family gathered for a grand celebration at Windsor Castle to honor the Duke of Kent’s 90th birthday, but two of the most senior royals were noticeably absent. Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Prince and Princess of Wales, skipped the event, leaving royal watchers wondering why.
King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted the elegant reception on Wednesday to celebrate the Duke of Kent’s remarkable milestone. The Duke, a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II, has long been regarded as one of the monarchy’s most devoted and steady figures.
According to GB News, the gathering was attended by several senior royals, including Princess Anne and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence. The Duke of Edinburgh was also present, joining the festivities to honor the Duke’s lifelong dedication to the crown.
Other attendees included the Duke’s siblings, Prince Michael of Kent and Princess Alexandra, both of whom have shared decades of royal service alongside him. Their appearance added a nostalgic touch to an evening that celebrated tradition and loyalty.
Court records confirmed that the reception served as an official acknowledgment of the Duke’s long service and his enduring importance within the royal family.
However, the absence of the Prince and Princess of Wales did not go unnoticed. Many had expected the future King and Queen to attend, given their close relationship with senior members of the family.
According to reports, William and Kate are currently taking a short break from royal duties to spend time with their children during the October school holidays.
Their decision to remain out of the spotlight during this family occasion has sparked curiosity, as they have been increasingly selective about their public appearances in recent months.
While the couple’s absence was officially attributed to family time, some royal observers believe it also reflects the couple’s effort to maintain a balanced family life away from royal pressure.
The Duchess of Edinburgh was also unable to attend the celebration, citing a prior engagement in London at the Country Land and Business Association Reception.
Despite the missing faces, the atmosphere at Windsor Castle was said to be warm and reflective, celebrating the Duke of Kent’s long-standing commitment to royal service.
The Duke, who turned 90 on October 9, was honored earlier this month with heartfelt social media tributes from family members, highlighting his decades of public dedication and quiet dignity.
King Charles reportedly used the occasion to express gratitude for the Duke’s unwavering support throughout his reign and during the transition following Queen Elizabeth’s passing.
As the royal family continues to navigate changing times, the Duke of Kent’s milestone celebration served as a reminder of the enduring ties that hold the monarchy together even as its younger members take a more modern and measured approach to royal life.
