The women of the royal family have long faced intense public scrutiny, and Queen Camilla is no exception. Once the target of widespread criticism, she is now earning growing respect as she quietly takes on more responsibilities during a difficult period for the monarchy.
In January 2024, Buckingham Palace revealed that King Charles would receive treatment for an enlarged prostate. As concerns over his health deepened, Camilla stepped up in a significant way. She began handling solo royal duties and representing the Crown at important events, showing both resilience and grace under pressure.
Royal correspondent Charles Rae commended her evolution, describing her as a “remarkable asset” to the royal family. “There’s no doubt—she’s really stepped in and taken on even more,” Rae said in an interview with GB News.
He reflected on her journey from public scorn—recalling incidents where “bread rolls were thrown at her”—to becoming a steady and respected figure within the monarchy.
A New Kind of Strength
Royal commentator Angela Levin also highlighted Camilla’s critical role. “She is holding the Royal Family up,” Levin said, noting that she’s been attending engagements alone that she would typically share with Charles. Her presence ensures that the royal calendar continues to move forward during the King’s treatment.
“She’s absolutely by his side,” Levin added. “If you imagine 30 years ago, people were saying the Royal Family would disintegrate. And now look at her—she’s a source of strength.”
Tension Amid Ceremony
On June 6, 2024, Queen Camilla and King Charles made a rare public appearance together at the 80th anniversary of D-Day in France. However, the event stirred controversy when Camilla, adhering to royal protocol, declined a gesture from French First Lady Brigitte Macron.
As the two women laid commemorative wreaths, Macron reached for Camilla’s hand. Camilla, following protocol, did not respond and kept her arms at her side. The moment, caught on video, sparked debate online.
Political commentator Emma Woolf criticized the gesture as “unworthy,” suggesting that protocol should have been set aside. “Brigitte Macron is not a ‘commoner’; she is the wife of the French President,” Woolf said. Social media users echoed the sentiment, saying Camilla missed an opportunity to show warmth and modernize the monarchy.
A Rare Public Display of Emotion
In contrast, the previous day’s D-Day celebration in Portsmouth revealed a more vulnerable side of Camilla. During a speech by navy veteran Eric Bateman, Camilla was visibly emotional as he spoke of sacrifice and courage. The powerful moment touched many, offering a glimpse into the compassion beneath her calm exterior.
Queen Camilla’s journey from public scorn to increasing admiration reflects both resilience and evolution. As she steps forward during one of the most challenging times in recent royal history, her role is being reshaped—and redefined—not just by duty, but by quiet dignity.
