Now here is something that we have not seen in a while: an appearance with Kate Middleton and Camilla Parker-Bowles in attendance! Clearly, there is absolutely no love lost between these two, and the awkwardness between them as they solemnly stood together for Remembrance Sunday was palpable. Middleton must be feeling a lot better because otherwise that nasty morning sickness would have been a great excuse to avoid this public appearance. Instead, the duchess pulled out her new Alexander McQueen coat, put on her hat and suffered through the event beside her enemy.
The rivalry between Middleton and Parker-Bowles is epic and it is basically because Prince William's wife is everything Parker-Bowles will never be. While Middleton was born a commoner, she has been easily accepted into the royal family, but Parker-Bowles's 30-year fling with Prince Charles sat so badly with Queen Elizabeth that even after they finally married her presence is something still barely tolerated by the royals.
Middleton has further stacked the deck in her favor by providing the monarchy with an heir and, presumably, a spare within the next few months. Middleton has gained Queen Elizabeth's respect and the British people have come to love her and Prince William. All of these things combined has made Parker-Bowles concerned that Elizabeth could change her mind and rather than Prince Charles being crowned as the next king of England that position could instead be bestowed upon Prince William. While it is Charles's birthright, it is not necessarily a job he really wants, and the people would likely prefer his son as their ruler.
Queen Elizabeth also reportedly hates the idea of Parker-Bowles ever setting foot on the throne, and she has taken some steps to change the protocol of the monarchy. That means that if she wants Prince William and Middleton on the throne next, it could happen easily. Parker-Bowles realizes this and it has only fueled the jealousy and bad blood between her and Middleton.
Who would you rather see as the next queen of England: Middleton or Parker-Bowles? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
