A storm of support has erupted online as royal fans fiercely defend the Prince and Princess of Wales following controversial remarks that a comparison to David and Victoria Beckham "cheapened" the future King and Queen.
The Praise That Sparked Controversy
The row began after a feature in The Times on Saturday, January 6, 2026, lauded Prince William and Princess Kate for their "genuine relationship and a genuinely strong marriage." A well-placed source within the piece drew a parallel to the Beckhams, who married in 1999, stating: "It reminds me a bit of dear old David and Victoria Beckham... I think the public can spot a genuine relationship and a genuinely strong marriage and two people who fit well together." The source praised the royal couple's strong individual and joint brand as a "great asset."
Columnist's Critique Ignites Backlash
This favourable comparison was swiftly criticised by Daily Mail columnist Amanda Platell, 68. In her piece published on Monday, January 7, she questioned whether likening the future sovereigns to the celebrity power couple was appropriate. "A strong marriage is undoubtedly important to the royals but do we really want to cheapen our future King and Queen by likening them to the Beckhams?" she wrote.
Her comments triggered an immediate and passionate defence of William and Kate across social media platforms. Supporters highlighted the couple's dignity and resilience, particularly during a challenging period that saw Princess Kate's cancer diagnosis in 2024 and her announcement of being in remission in January 2025.
Royal Supporters Rally Online
Social media users were quick to counter Platell's view, emphasising the Prince and Princess of Wales's qualities. One supporter stated: "As for the cheap shots at Catherine, Princess of Wales, she seems to be perfect as our next Queen." Another added: "Kate is the classiest kindest woman. She will make an incredible queen." A third comment read: "Personally, I think the comparison between the Beckhams & W&K is spot on," suggesting the parallel was intended as a compliment to their popular and enduring partnership.
The online defence underscored the couple's sustained popularity. It also comes amid speculation that William and Kate may undertake a significant joint foreign tour in 2026, potentially to the United States to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence—a visit that would echo Queen Elizabeth II's trip for the bicentennial in 1976.
