When we think of the Princess of Wales, we often picture the polished public figure.
But her brother James Middleton gives us a rare glimpse into who Kate really is behind closed doors.
In a heartfelt interview, James, 38, opened up about the deep and unchanging bond he shares with his sister Kate, 43, even after she joined the Royal Family.
He describes her not just as a sister but as a steadfast friend who has supported him through some of his darkest times.
Despite the royal spotlight, James says Kate remains the same caring, sensitive, and emotionally strong woman he’s always known.
A Sibling Bond That Stands the Test of Time
James told The Mirror how lucky he feels to have his two sisters, Kate and Pippa, not only as family but as friends who have seen him at both his best and worst.
“Sibling love is unique — you don’t get to choose your siblings, and sometimes it’s complicated and takes effort,” he said.
“But when it’s strong, it’s one of the most powerful connections anyone can have.”
He credits Kate, along with Pippa and their mother Carole, for helping him through a tough mental health crisis in 2017.
That support system made all the difference during his lowest points.
Facing Mental Health Challenges Together
James has been open about his struggles with Attention Deficit Disorder, clinical depression, and dyslexia, which affected his schooling and university life.
In 2017, he started Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and found comfort in bringing along his dog Ella to some sessions, highlighting how important unconditional support can be.
He even shared a moment when he stood on the ledge of his parents’ home, contemplating suicide — but it was Ella, his childhood dog, who helped him step back from the edge.
Ella became not just a pet but a symbol of hope and survival, something James recently wrote about in his book, Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life.
The Family’s Journey Through Cancer and Recovery
James also spoke about the family’s ordeal when Kate was diagnosed with cancer.
He described it as a challenging time not only for Kate but for everyone close to her.
The Princess of Wales has been open about her treatment journey, revealing last September that she had finished chemotherapy and was focusing on taking each day as it comes.
Kate has since shared how nature became a sanctuary for her during recovery.
Through a series of short films released on Kensington Palace’s social channels, she narrated the healing power of the natural world, showing footage of time spent outdoors with Prince William on the Isle of Mull.
Finding Strength and Renewal in Nature
Kate’s message highlights how nature’s cycles of renewal mirror our own capacity to heal and grow.
She spoke about spring as a season of hope, new beginnings, and optimism — a reminder that even after the darkest times, life can blossom again.
“The natural world has endless power to inspire, nurture, and help us heal,” Kate said.
“It’s through nature that we can reconnect with ourselves, the world around us, and each other.”
As spring unfolds, she encourages everyone to embrace this season of renewal and hold onto what truly connects us all, offering a hopeful message for the future.
