In a historic act of recognition, Kate, Princess of Wales, received the highest honour from King Charles.
The Honour was established in 1917 by King George V to honour individuals who have made outstanding achievements in the arts, sciences, medicine and public service.
Today, the century-old medal welcomes its first royalty: Kate, who is now a royal companion. This unique honour is not only an acknowledgement of Kate's loyal service to the royal family since her marriage to Prince William nearly 13 years ago, but also a recognition of her important contribution to the arts career.
According to British media on April 24, Kate was appointed as a member of the Order of Exalted Companions, an honor usually conferred by the Cabinet Office on the recommendation of the king, indicating that she is highly respected by King Charles.
As a passionate photographer and patron of the Royal Photographic Society and the National Portrait Gallery, Kate has always championed creativity and expression. The "Stand Still" program she launched during lockdown is a touching example of her ability to inspire and unite people.
Members of the Honourable Companion Medal inducted alongside Kate include illustrious personalities such as Sir David Attenborough, Dame Judi Dench and Sir Paul McCartney, and Kate's addition is a testament to her influence and commitment to excellence. The spirit of the Order, the Royal Chapel at Hampton Court Palace, now welcomes a royal presence, further enriching its tradition of excellence.
Princess Kate's appointment is one of a series of new appointments made by King Charles on April 23, which also includes the honours of four senior royals.
Queen Camilla will serve as Grand Master of the UK's finest Order and Chief Grand Cross, a traditional appointment for royal consorts. Similarly, Prince William followed in his father's footsteps by being appointed Master of the Order of the Bath, the most honored of the British Empire, in recognition of his outstanding service.
In addition, on St. George's Day, the oldest order of the Garter, welcomed new companions, including the Duchess of Gloucestershire, Lord Peach, Lord Kaka and Lord Lloyd Webb. These appointments underscore a tradition of unwavering dedication to individuals and exceptional achievement.
The promotion of the Duchess of Gloucestershire to the Most Honourable Lady of the Order of the Garter is a recognition of her decades of loyal service to the monarch and a wide range of philanthropy. At the same time, the appointments of Air Marshal Lord Pich and Lord Kaka reflect their outstanding contributions to the military and medical fields.
Perhaps the most notable appointment, however, was that of Lord Lloyd Webb. As one of the most successful composers of contemporary Britain, he has composed the soundtracks to world-famous musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera, Cats and Jesus Christ Superstar. He also owns six of the most recognisable theatres in London's West End. As a member of the Order of the Garter, his addition highlights the timeless significance of art in British culture.
Every June, the award of the Order of the Garter is celebrated in a solemn ceremony at Windsor Castle, reaffirming the timeless tradition of chivalry and honour. The choice of knights and ladies of the Order of the Garter is the prerogative of the monarch and is not subject to political influence.