The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has a surprisingly common habit that once dictated her entire Christmas gift list. In a revelation that highlights her relatable side, it has emerged that one year all her festive presents were centred on helping her keep track of her frequently misplaced mobile phone.
A Running Joke in the Royal Household
According to reports, Kate's tendency to mislay her device became a "running joke" among her family. So much so, that by Christmas 2019, her loved ones had decided to tackle the issue head-on with a series of practical presents. Every gift she received was reportedly aimed at helping the then busy mother of three keep her phone to hand.
At that time, Prince George was six, Princess Charlotte was four, and Prince Louis was just 20 months old. Juggling the demands of her young family, it's a scenario to which countless parents across the UK can easily relate. This humanising detail stands in contrast to the family's global fame, exemplified by young Louis's now-iconic playful antics during the Platinum Jubilee flypast.
Podcast Confirmation from Giovanna Fletcher
The anecdote was confirmed by author and podcaster Giovanna Fletcher, who interviewed Kate in the weeks following that Christmas. Recalling the conversation, Fletcher stated: "She told me that she was notoriously bad at keeping an eye on her phone. She always loses her phone. All of her Christmas presents that year were related to her keeping track of her phone."
The interview was for Fletcher's 'Happy Mum, Happy Baby' podcast and occurred as Kate was launching her landmark campaign on early years childhood development. Fletcher noted that both she and the Princess were nervous at the start of the recording, a candid admission that further broke down the royal facade. Prince William's presence alongside his wife helped to ease the tension.
Glimpsing the Future: A Queen Who Really Listens
This glimpse into Kate Middleton's everyday life is now being seen as indicative of her future style as a monarch. Fans and commentators alike are marvelling at the prospect of her one day becoming Queen. Giovanna Fletcher, who won I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here in 2020, has tipped Kate to be a sovereign "who really listens".
Fletcher elaborated, praising the Princess's grit and dedication, particularly in continuing her early years work following her 2024 cancer diagnosis. She said: "I think she'll be a queen who really listens, who leans in, who's very aware of what's going on... I think they are going into it with their eyes completely open."
The simple, relatable story of lost phones and pragmatic Christmas gifts ultimately paints a picture of a modern royal figure. It underscores a potential future where the monarchy is perceived as in touch and collaborative, with a queen attuned to the common experiences of the public she will serve.
