05-04-2025
Kensington Palace Posts Prince William and Kate Middleton Videos Just Days Apart—But Hers Is a Much Bigger Deal
The future of our planet is clearly top of mind for the Prince and Princess of Wales. Over the past six days, Kensington Palace released videos featuring each of them, both sharing a similar message of preservation and appreciation. But it's Kate Middleton's video, posted first, that really resonates—and sets the stage for William's big announcement.
Cinematically arresting, Middleton's video features an ASMR-ish take on nature. Waves lap the shore, a ladybug trundles along a stem, rain patters on a grassy field—it's a post in honor of Mother's Day in the U.K., and rather than honor her role, Middleton chooses to pay homage to the ultimate nurturer, Mother Nature.
And while the imagery itself is slickly produced, the message is heartfelt, underscored by the "C" at the end of the caption. It denotes that the princess wrote the message herself, making it all the more significant. It also tees up the latest video, starring Prince William, adding an extra layer of sincerity behind their mission to care for the planet.
William's post is star-studded, featuring Billy Porter, Heidi Klum, Nomzamo Mbatha, Cate Blanchett and David Beckham—just to name a few faces—as he announces the location of the 2025 Earthshot Awards: Brazil. It's a fitting location, considering the country will also be hosting the 2025 Climate Change Conference this November.
"We need urgent optimism more than ever, and I think Brazil epitomizes that," the prince says.
Founded by Prince William and the Royal Foundation, the Earthshot Awards provides £1 million each to five innovators, so that they can pursue a project designed to combat climate change. Each winner is chosen to focus on a specific "Earthshot," or area of need: protecting and restoring nature, purifying the water, reducing waste, cleaning the oceans and, more broadly, "fix our climate."
While the big news and celebrity cameos may garner more attention, I'd argue that Kate's video is crucial for showing the heart behind their mission, albeit indirectly. It highlights the couple's genuine passion for preserving our planet, all underscored by Kate's decision to dedicate the holiday to it—and her taking the time to write a personal message to go with it.
Dan Mullan/RFU/Getty Images
"Over the past year, nature has been our sanctuary," she wrote. "This Mother's Day, let us celebrate Mother Nature and recognize how our bond with the natural world can help not only nurture our inner selves, but remind us too of the role we play within the rich tapestry of life."
Well said, Kate. Well said.
Kate Middleton Just Threw Royal Tradition Out the Window with Her Striking (and Surprising) New Video
