> At a Glance
> – Kate Middleton introduced Prince William as “This is William” during a Jan. 8 hospital visit
> – The couple skipped royal titles while meeting patients at Charing Cross Hospital
> – Why it matters: Shows the modern royals’ relaxed approach to public engagements
Princess Kate kept things refreshingly simple while introducing her husband to a hospital patient, proving that even future kings can be introduced by their first name.
The Casual Introduction
During a joint visit to Charing Cross Hospital on January 8, Kate approached a patient and asked her name before making the introduction. In a video shared by ITV’s Lizzie Robinson, the Princess simply said:
> Kate Middleton said:
> “This is William.”
The Prince of Wales responded by shaking the patient’s hand and joking, “We’ve come to interrupt your gym session,” prompting laughter from everyone present.
Modern Royals, Modern Manners
Despite holding multiple prestigious titles-including Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, and Duke of Rothesay-William and Kate consistently use first names in public interactions. The couple signs personal messages as “W” or “C,” embracing a more approachable royal style.
Their visit highlighted NHS Charities Together, where they serve as joint patrons. During a roundtable discussion with charity leaders, William introduced his wife with equal informality:
> Prince William said:
> “Catherine and I just had a very nice tour around the rehabilitation unit upstairs.”
Personal Connections
The royal couple drew from personal experiences while discussing NHS importance. William referenced his time as an air ambulance pilot from 2015-2017, while acknowledging Kate’s recent health journey.
> Prince William explained:
> “Both of us have had different experiences with hospital-me working with the air ambulance, Catherine with her recent health journey.”
Kate completed chemotherapy treatment in September 2024 and announced remission in January 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Kate and William demonstrate accessible royal approach by using first names
- Their hospital visit emphasized NHS staff and patient welfare
- The couple’s personal health experiences inform their charitable focus
- Modern royal protocol increasingly emphasizes connection over ceremony
The informal introductions reflect a broader shift toward accessibility in royal public service, making future monarchs seem more relatable to everyday citizens.
