Catherine Middleton’s recent embrace with a talented young photographer stirred a variety of reactions, particularly around her appearance, with many commenting on her seemingly healthy hair despite her own battle with cancer and undergoing chemotherapy.
The touching moment occurred during an engagement at Windsor Castle on October 2, 2024, marking Catherine’s first public event since resuming royal duties. During this visit, she met 16-year-old Liz Hatton, a photographer fighting a rare and aggressive tumor. Liz, who had her hair cut short due to her cancer treatments, smiled while taking pictures with Catherine and Prince William. Liz was accompanied by her family, who were present for the memorable occasion.
Catherine and Liz shared a warm hug in a photograph posted online, capturing the contrast between their hairstyles, as both are currently dealing with cancer. However, not all comments on social media were positive. One particular remark took a critical turn, saying, “A hug that says ‘look at my healthy color-treated hair’ will speak volumes. IJS 🤔.”
While many praised Catherine for her beauty and style, others questioned her appearance, with some asking how she still had hair after chemotherapy, a stark contrast to other cancer patients like Liz. One skeptic cynically remarked, “How come all the real cancer patients are without hair on their heads, and your hair is longer and longer?!” Another even questioned why her head seemed so big.
On the other hand, there were plenty of admirers who commented on her beauty. Some gushed over her stunning appearance, with remarks like “Catherine looks stunning” and “Kate’s hair! Wow!” Others speculated that she might have hair extensions due to its seemingly increased length.
Despite the mixed reactions, many fans expressed relief and happiness to see Catherine looking healthy and resuming her royal duties. One follower commented, “Catherine, it’s so great to see you looking so healthy and beautiful,” while another noted, “Her hair is so beautiful, but more than that, I’m glad to see her out and about.”
Catherine’s rare appearance, which garnered much attention, came after months of limited public engagements. The Palace had previously stated that it was still uncertain whether she was cancer-free, even after finishing her chemotherapy treatments. Regardless, Catherine appeared cheerful, and she and William shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing, “A pleasure to meet with Liz at Windsor today. A talented young photographer whose creativity and strength have inspired us both. Thank you for sharing your photos and story with us.”
Liz also expressed her excitement about the encounter on her Instagram stories, calling Catherine and William “such lovely, genuine, and kind people.” The family was given a private meeting with the royal couple following the photoshoot, further deepening the personal connection.
@thesun Members of the Royal Family attended Crathie Kirk Church near Balmoral Castle in Scotland this morning for Sunday Service. #thesun #news #uknews #royalfamily #royals #princesskatemiddleton #princesskate #princewilliam #kingcharles #queencamilla #katemiddleton #balmoralcastle #crathiekirk #scotland
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While the heartwarming interaction between Catherine and Liz was the focal point of the event, online discussions were heavily centered around Catherine’s hair. Hair experts from NYC’s RPZL salon confirmed that the Princess of Wales has used their brand’s extensions, although Catherine has never publicly addressed the matter. Stylists praised her signature look, which includes long layers and sleek waves, emphasizing her shiny, healthy hair.
Though Catherine’s hairstyle has evolved slightly over the years, her classic, timeless beauty remains consistent, with fans and stylists alike admiring her elegant appearance. Her return to public life has reignited discussions around her style, and with it, a new wave of admiration and curiosity from the public.
Following her recent return to the spotlight, Catherine is slowly resuming her royal duties. Her first official engagement, listed in the Court Circular, took place at Windsor Castle, where she met with her team from the Centre for Early Childhood. This marked the beginning of her gradual return to royal work, focusing on the causes closest to her heart, particularly early childhood development.
As Catherine reenters public life, her resilience continues to inspire many, and her understated yet significant return to royal engagements signals a new chapter in her journey.