King Charles bestows new Royal titles on Kate Middleton and Prince William

Kate Middleton makes history and strengthens her bond with the King.

King Charles has made significant new appointments within the royal family, including bestowing prestigious titles upon Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Queen Camilla. The announcement came on April 23rd, coinciding with Prince Louis' sixth birthday.

Princess Kate, 42, has been appointed Royal Companion of the Order of the Companions of Honour, a historic first for the role. Founded in 1917, the Order recognizes exceptional contributions to the arts, sciences, medicine, and public service. With a limited membership of 65, the Order's current members include luminaries such as David Attenborough, Elton John, and Judi Dench.

The appointment comes as both Princess Kate and King Charles undergo treatment for cancer. "They are in this together, Kate and the King," said royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith, noting the close bond between the two, which has likely grown stronger in the face of their shared health challenges.

Prince William, 41, has been appointed Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, a position previously held by King Charles for nearly 50 years. This distinguished Order, dating back centuries, honours exemplary military and civil service.

Queen Camilla has been appointed Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Founded in 1917, this Order recognizes a broad cross-section of society and grants recipients the title of knight or dame.

The King also named four new members to the Order of the Garter, the UK's oldest Order of Chivalry established in the 14th century. The Duchess of Gloucester, wife of Queen Elizabeth II's cousin, notably became the first non-blood royal outside of spouses and heirs to receive this honour.