Former Palace Staff Detail Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle's Contrasting Royal Behaviors

A new book by Tom Quinn, drawing on accounts from former royal staff, reveals significant differences in how Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle adapted to life within the British Royal Family. Both women, outsiders to royal aristocracy, reportedly approached their roles in contrasting ways: Kate was described as respectful, tradition-conscious, and willing to learn quietly from senior royals, while Meghan was characterized as confident, eager to modernize, and intent on becoming the most prominent royal. Staff recounted Meghan’s determination to continue Princess Diana’s legacy, albeit on a limited basis, and noted her tendency to want to take charge in palace settings, sometimes clashing with established traditions. Kate, meanwhile, was praised for her measured approach and deference to royal protocol. These differing styles reportedly contributed to both women facing criticism from palace traditionalists, but for different reasons. The accounts highlight the challenges faced by newcomers in navigating the expectations and hierarchies of royal life.