Kate Middleton and Prince William are a 'double act' as royal future takes shape

Kate Middleton is being praised as the quiet powerhouse behind the future of the monarchy with insiders dubbing her a "gatekeeper" as she prepares for an even bigger role.

According to The Times, sources close to the Prince and Princess of Wales have revealed that Kate, 42, is expected to take on a "hugely influential" position as Prince William moves closer to the throne.

Insiders say that Kate views her role similarly to how Prince Philip once supported Queen Elizabeth II, standing firmly behind the scenes while making significant contributions of her own.

"For Kate, that means acting as a gatekeeper to ensure that William can do his work while also finding time to be a hands-on father," a source shared, per Express. "Everyone understands that this is the deal."

The princess is said to play a key role behind the scenes, particularly when it comes to hiring and decision-making, with her and William operating as a "good double act," much like the late Queen and Prince Philip, or King Charles and Queen Camilla.

"She’s hugely influential behind the scenes," a source added. "They approach everything as a team."

Another insider described Prince William’s priorities as being "normal, private, and control" — a vision that Kate shares and fiercely protects.

"In that glare of publicity and scrutiny, they are very tight, very close, very strong," the source said. "And cancer has made them closer and stronger, which is very common in families facing these challenges."

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