The BBC has faced criticism after repeatedly referring to Kate, Princess of Wales, as “Kate Middleton” during coverage of a Remembrance Day service.

The 43-year-old royal attended the service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire last Tuesday, honoring those who gave their lives for the country. While her appearance and role were dignified, the broadcaster’s slip-up drew swift backlash from royal fans online.

Kate’s Appearance at the Service

Princess Kate stepped out in an elegant all-black ensemble, featuring a military-style coat and wide-brimmed hat. She led the ceremony and laid a wreath, paying tribute to the fallen alongside veterans, military families, and senior officials.

Despite the solemnity of the occasion, viewers were shocked when BBC coverage repeatedly used her maiden name instead of her official royal title, Catherine, Princess of Wales.

Social Media Backlash

Fans quickly took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their frustration. Many called the coverage “disrespectful” and criticized the presenter for failing to use her correct title.

One viewer wrote, “Can’t believe the appalling coverage on BBC. The Princess of Wales being referred to as Kate Middleton!” Another added, “Somebody should have a word with your reporter – she should not be referring to the Princess of Wales as ‘Kate Middleton’!”

BBC Apologizes

Following the complaints, the broadcaster issued an apology on November 14. A statement read:
“During our coverage of memorials to commemorate Armistice Day we mistakenly referred to Catherine, Princess of Wales as Kate Middleton; these were errors during hours of live broadcasting, for which we apologise.”

Kate’s Remembrance Sunday Appearance

Earlier in the week, on November 9, Kate attended the annual Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London. She was joined on the balcony by Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, Queen Camilla, and the Duke of Kent, while King Charles, Prince William, and Prince Edward were also present.

She wore an all-black outfit with an asymmetrical hat, a lace ruffle scarf, and pearl drop earrings reportedly once belonging to Princess Diana. Paying tribute to her grandfather, she also wore an RAF brooch in honor of Peter Middleton, who served as a World War II fighter pilot.

The night before, Kate attended the Festival of Remembrance alongside members of the royal family, including her eldest son, Prince George, though he did not attend the Sunday service.