RF. Kate Middleton and Prince William Are ‘Not Interested at All’ in ‘Fame and Celebrity,’ Former Aide Says

Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, have long stood as emblematic figures of a modern monarchy—grounded in service, committed to family, and focused on impactful causes. While their public roles place them squarely in the spotlight, those who have worked closely with the couple say they are motivated not by fame or celebrity but by a strong sense of duty.

This perspective was recently reaffirmed by their former communications secretary and Royal Foundation CEO, Jason Knauf, in a televised interview with 60 Minutes Australia. His comments offered a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the royal couple’s public life and personal values.

“They’re Doing Their Jobs for the Right Reasons”

Speaking during an episode that aired on February 23, 2024, Knauf explained that neither Prince William nor Princess Catherine seeks the limelight for personal gratification.

“They’re not that interested in the fame and celebrity that comes with it. In fact, not really interested at all,” Knauf said. “What you see is what you really get behind the scenes.”

His statement echoed long-standing impressions of the Prince and Princess of Wales as individuals grounded in authenticity and purpose. According to Knauf, their primary motivation lies in public service, not popularity—a sentiment mirrored in their charitable engagements and daily work through initiatives like the Royal Foundation and the Earthshot Prize.

(Source: 60 Minutes Australia Interview)

Public Figures with Private Priorities

Despite their high-profile roles, William and Kate have maintained a strong focus on parenting and privacy. The couple is raising their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—with a deliberate emphasis on normalcy and stability.

As reported by People magazine and corroborated by other reputable media outlets, William and Kate often schedule their engagements around their children’s school calendars, making time for family holidays and school breaks, such as recent visits to Mustique during half-term.

“They consciously set out to achieve a sense of normality,” a family friend told People. “Royal families over the generations haven’t had the chance to get those foundations right, but they have.”

(Source: People)

A More Hands-On Approach to Parenting

Unlike previous generations of royals who were largely raised by governesses or boarding school routines, William and Catherine are known for their direct involvement in their children’s lives. This includes taking the children to school, attending extracurricular activities, and involving them in low-profile family outings.

Royal watchers have noted that Princess Kate draws from her own upbringing in Berkshire to instill strong values of empathy and resilience in her children. A palace insider told People, “A lot of it is the stabilizing normality Kate brings—and that’s how she grew up. William absolutely loves it.”

(Source: People)

Representing the Crown with Modern Values

While they are often photographed at high-profile events—such as Trooping the Colour, state banquets, or international tours—the Prince and Princess of Wales have also distinguished themselves through advocacy and meaningful projects. Prince William has become known for his environmental leadership through the Earthshot Prize, launched in 2020 to reward solutions to climate change and sustainability challenges.

Meanwhile, Princess Kate continues to focus on early childhood development and mental health. Her landmark “Shaping Us” campaign, launched through the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, aims to raise awareness about the critical impact of the first five years of a child’s life.

(Source: Royal Foundation – Centre for Early Childhood)

A Longstanding Commitment to Mental Health

William and Kate have also prioritized mental health advocacy. Through the Heads Together campaign, launched with Prince Harry in 2016, they brought mental well-being to the forefront of national conversation in the UK. The couple regularly speaks with mental health professionals, educators, and young people as part of this mission.

On World Mental Health Day in October 2023, the couple visited the SportsAid charity in Marlow, England, where they engaged with young athletes and discussed the importance of mental well-being in sports and beyond.

(Source: BBC News)

A Modern Approach to Royal Representation

Despite their global recognition, the couple remains grounded. When attending major events such as the BAFTA Film Awards, they often use the platform to elevate others—particularly emerging talent and underrepresented voices in the arts. In 2023, Prince William delivered a pre-recorded message celebrating young filmmakers while choosing to prioritize family time over a red-carpet appearance.

Their decision not to attend the 2025 BAFTAs was also made to accommodate a family vacation, reinforcing their ongoing effort to balance public service with family life.

(Source: The Telegraph)

Behind the Scenes: Jason Knauf’s Perspective

Jason Knauf, who worked for both William and Harry and later served as CEO of the Royal Foundation, spoke highly of the couple’s integrity and consistency. He emphasized that their public image aligns closely with who they are in private.

“All you can do is help people be themselves,” Knauf said, “and with both of these people, what you see is what you get behind the scenes.”

Knauf stepped down from his role in 2021 but continues to serve on the Earthshot Prize board of trustees.

(Source: Earthshot Prize)

The Importance of Genuine Leadership

Prince William and Princess Kate’s aversion to celebrity culture does not stem from aloofness but from a conscious desire to let their work—and not media headlines—speak for itself. In a time when public figures are often measured by their social media presence, the royal couple stands out for their emphasis on substance over style.

Whether addressing mental health, climate change, or early childhood education, their actions reflect a commitment to long-term impact, not fleeting popularity.

(Source: Reuters)

Conclusion

Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, are redefining royal leadership in the 21st century. While they undoubtedly occupy the global stage, their focus remains firmly on purpose-driven service, hands-on parenting, and meaningful initiatives.

As shared by those who know them best, including former aide Jason Knauf, the couple’s rejection of fame for fame’s sake sets them apart. Their authenticity, dedication, and desire to build a lasting legacy rooted in compassion and action continue to resonate deeply with the British public and admirers around the world.

Sources:

• BBC News – Royal Family

• People Magazine – Royals

• Royal.uk – The Royal Family Official Website

• The Telegraph – Royal Coverage

• Earthshot Prize

• Royal Foundation – Centre for Early Childhood

• Reuters – UK Royals