Kate Middleton may be the Princess of Wales but her roots lie in a close-knit family that has played a significant role in shaping the woman she is today. Her parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, have been by her side through every major milestone. From her early years in the English countryside to her rise as one of the most recognised royals in the world, they have been by her side always.
Discover our latest podcast
Despite their newfound royal connections, the Middletons have maintained a relatively private and grounded lifestyle. However, their journey has not been without challenges. From launching a successful business to facing financial setbacks, here’s everything we know about Kate Middleton’s parents and their fascinating lives.
Who are Kate Middleton’s parents?
Before Kate Middleton became the Princess of Wales, she was raised in a loving home by her parents, Michael and Carole Middleton. The couple, who have been married for over 40 years, met in the 1970s while working at British Airways. Carole was a flight attendant, while Michael worked as a flight dispatcher. Their romance led to marriage in 1980, and soon after, they welcomed three children: Kate, Pippa, and James.
Despite their connection to the British Royal Family through Kate’s marriage to Prince William, the Middletons have always remained relatively private. However, they have attended several royal events over the years, including Kate’s annual Royal Carols: Together At Christmas concert and King Charles' coronation in 2023. Michael also played a pivotal role in Kate’s wedding to Prince William in 2011, walking his daughter down the aisle at Westminster Abbey.
Carole and Michael have played an essential role in their daughter’s life, and even Queen Elizabeth reportedly recognised their influence. As royal insider Ingrid Seward told People in 2016:
Because of the circumstances of William’s childhood, the Queen has made a big effort to include the Middletons much more than she would have done otherwise. She is recognising they have a big role in the lives of her family — and she is happy with that.
The Middletons also stepped in as a strong support system for Kate following her abdominal surgery in early 2024 and her cancer journey. As she recovered, reports suggested that Carole and Michael have assisted with their grandchildren, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Kate, William, and their children, tend to spend a lot of time with the Princess' side of the family. For instance, they all marked Carole Middleton's 70th birthday in style, celebrating on the luxurious Caribbean island of Mustique.
According to Hello!, Princess Kate and Prince William, along with their three children, joined Carole, her husband Michael, daughter Pippa and her family, and son James with his wife and son for the extravagant getaway.
The Middletons and their royal connection
While Michael and Carole Middleton are not royals themselves, there is an interesting historical link between Carole and the Royal Family. As reported by Town & Country, Carole Middleton is a distant relative of the Queen Mother. Her family background is a mix of aristocratic and working-class roots, with ancestors who were laborers and miners in County Durham.
Michael Middleton, on the other hand, has stronger ties to British aristocracy. His paternal grandmother, Olive Middleton, was part of the Lupton family—a well-known political dynasty in Yorkshire. His family history includes prominent figures who had connections with the British elite, though they never held royal titles.
One of Carole and Michael’s biggest challenges
For years, the Middletons were known for their successful business, Party Pieces. Carole launched the party supply company in 1987 after struggling to find decorations for Kate’s fifth birthday. The business quickly flourished, and by the early 2000s, Party Pieces was a staple for British families looking for themed party supplies.
However, the company faced financial difficulties in later years. As per Tatler, in 2021, reports emerged that Party Pieces had suffered a financial loss of over £250,000 due to post-pandemic economic challenges. Party Pieces went into administration in June 2023, leaving behind over £2.5 million in debt.
A close friend of Carole revealed to The Daily Mail that she was ‘upset and deeply disappointed’ about the situation, especially after struggling to find a buyer who could keep the company afloat while covering outstanding debts.
Read more:
Princess Kate attends women’s prison but reactions are mixed: ‘Tell them the truth’
Prince William and Kate Middleton could grant royal warrants for the first time in 2025
Sources used:
People: All About Kate Middleton's Parents, Michael and Carole Middleton
Town & Country: Everything You Need to Know About the Middleton Family
Tatler: Kate Middleton’s Parents Carole and Michael Face Fresh Heartache Over Party Pieces
Hello!: Inside Carole Middleton’s Lavish 70th Birthday Celebrations in Mustique
