Kate Middleton ‘backbone’ of monarchy as William under pressure

Another source said William was struggling with the scale of responsibility now surrounding his future role.

The insider said: “There are moments when the enormity of what awaits William really starts to weigh on him.”

“Preparing to become king is always a huge burden, but the current climate surrounding the monarchy makes that weight feel even heavier.”

The source added that the accumulation of controversies and public scrutiny was putting pressure on the prince.

They said: “People familiar with what goes on behind the scenes say there have been periods when the constant stream of controversy, public scrutiny and institutional pressure has visibly affected him.”

The source added that the prince appears well aware of the magnitude of responsibility that awaits him as future king.

They continued: “He understands that the expectations placed on him are enormous and that he will ultimately inherit an institution that is under intense scrutiny. Those around him say awareness can sometimes make the road ahead intimidating, especially when the royal family is dealing with multiple crises at the same time.”

By providing William with a stable family life, Kate would provide him with a crucial base of support away from the pressures of royal duties.

People close to the couple say the prince relies heavily on his wife’s judgment and emotional support.

The couple have three children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, and have repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong family environment.

Royal commentators also point to the influence of Kate’s parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, whose settled family life has shaped the princess’s approach to marriage and royal duty.