Overview
- In a Nov. 14 statement, the BBC apologized for on-air references to “Kate Middleton,” calling them errors during hours of live coverage and noting her correct title was used elsewhere.
- The misnaming occurred during live coverage of the Nov. 11 service at the National Memorial Arboretum, and a clip of the remark circulated widely on X.
- Viewer complaints and a public rebuke from MP Jim Shannon pressed the point that the correct form is Catherine, Princess of Wales.
- News outlets underscored that many journalists still use “Kate Middleton” for search recognition, reflecting tension between formal titles and audience habits.
- The incident adds to pressure on the BBC as it contends with fallout from a Panorama edit of President Donald Trump’s remarks and related leadership turmoil.