In a striking turn of public opinion, Prince William has emerged as the most popular figure in the British royal family, overtaking his wife, Princess Catherine (Kate Middleton), whose long-standing appeal had positioned her at the forefront of royal favorability. A recent YouGov poll places Prince William at the top of the rankings, with an impressive 74 percent of respondents expressing a positive view of him, while the Princess of Wales follows closely behind at 71 percent—revealing a subtle but notable shift in public sentiment.
For over a decade, Kate Middleton held the crown for popularity among royals, her appeal often likened to that of the late Princess Diana, whose grace and humanity endeared her to millions. However, the tide has turned. According to The New Daily, a separate YouGov survey confirms that as of early August 2025, Prince William is now the public’s favorite royal—74 percent favorability versus Kate’s 71 percent, with Princess Anne not far behind at 70 percent.
Princess Anne’s enduring popularity remains noteworthy. Despite shunning the limelight, her tireless work ethic and humble approach to public service continue to resonate deeply with the British public. Save the Children CEO Moazzam Malik praised her as “low-key, self-effacing…very committed,” reflecting a widespread appreciation for her steadfast dedication.
This shift in popularity may be attributed to William’s evolving role within the royal family. Since Kate’s cancer diagnosis—and her subsequent period away from public duties—William has taken on increased responsibilities, demonstrating resilience and empathy that appear to have struck a chord with the public. Observers suggest that this greater visibility and sense of responsibility may have enhanced his appeal.
Beyond individual rankings, the poll offers broader insights into how Britons view the monarchy itself. The YouGov survey found that 59 percent of respondents believe the institution benefits Britain, 54 percent feel it represents good value for money, and 47 percent express pride in the monarchy.
These numbers reflect continued support for the royal family, even amid evolving dynamics. The polling data underscores a subtle recalibration in public sentiment: while Kate remains hugely popular, Prince William’s growing favor signals how leadership, duty, and personal resilience can shape public perception.
Prince William’s elevated standing—surpassing his wife, a long-reigning public favorite—marks a rare moment of change in the royal popularity landscape. It reflects not only his evolving public role but also an enduring public fascination with the individuals behind the royal titles.
