On November 11, 2025, during live Armistice Day coverage at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, the BBC made repeated errors that would quickly draw public criticism. Viewers across the UK watched as correspondent Rajini Vaidyanathan, a seasoned journalist with extensive experience covering royal events, referred to Catherine, Princess of Wales, by her maiden name, “Kate Middleton,” multiple times within a few minutes during segments introducing the Princess.
The mistake, broadcast during a solemn national ceremony honoring military service, unfolded as Catherine attended the event to lay a wreath on behalf of Prince William—a significant moment marking her return to public duties following her health challenges. The incident quickly ignited a wave of criticism on social media and prompted formal complaints to the broadcaster.
Swift Public and Social Media Backlash
The reaction to the repeated on-air references was swift and widespread. Clips of the broadcast were rapidly shared on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, with viewers expressing disappointment and frustration at what many characterized as disrespectful. Royal commentators and members of the public highlighted the significance of using correct royal titles, especially during a ceremony of national remembrance. The BBC received numerous formal complaints from viewers emphasizing that Catherine has held the title “Princess of Wales” since King Charles III’s accession in September 2022.
Many saw the error as particularly inappropriate given the context—Armistice Day is a time when national traditions and respect for the monarchy are especially prominent.
Political Response
Jim Shannon, Member of Parliament for Strangford, publicly responded to the incident. He reminded the BBC that Catherine has not been referred to as “Kate Middleton” since her marriage to Prince William in 2011 and urged the broadcaster to ensure its presenters are properly informed about royal titles, underscoring the importance of accuracy in public service broadcasting.
BBC Apology and Corrections
In response to the mounting criticism, the BBC issued a formal apology on November 14, 2025. The broadcaster acknowledged the errors made during the live coverage and expressed regret for the oversight. The statement confirmed that “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.”
The BBC also corrected an online headline, changing it from “Kate and Queen lay Armistice Day wreaths as nation pays tribute” to “Catherine and Queen lay Armistice Day wreaths as nation pays tribute.”
The broadcaster emphasized that “throughout our Armistice Day coverage more broadly, we referred to Catherine by her correct title,” indicating the errors were isolated to specific segments rather than systemic throughout the entire day’s programming.
The Significance of Royal Titles
Catherine’s official title carries deep historical and ceremonial weight. She became Duchess of Cambridge following her 2011 marriage to Prince William and assumed the title Princess of Wales following King Charles III’s accession in September 2022—a position previously held by the late Princess Diana. For many observers, the use of correct titles is not merely a matter of etiquette but a sign of respect for the monarchy and its traditions.
Catherine’s Recent Health Journey and Public Return
The Armistice Day ceremony marked an important public appearance for Catherine, who has recently resumed royal duties following a period of illness. In March 2024, she publicly announced a cancer diagnosis and underwent preventive chemotherapy. By September 2024, she had completed treatment, and in January 2025, she revealed she was in remission.
Her presence at the National Memorial Arboretum, dressed in a black military-style coat adorned with red poppies, was widely praised as a dignified return to public service. Support for Catherine has been strong throughout her health challenges, with many expressing admiration for her openness and resilience.
Broader Context: BBC Under Scrutiny
The naming error occurred amid a turbulent period for the BBC. The broadcaster was simultaneously facing criticism over editorial practices in its coverage of political events. These dual incidents have placed the broadcaster’s editorial standards under intense scrutiny, with critics arguing that the errors highlight systemic issues with fact-checking and oversight, particularly during live events.
Moving Forward
The BBC has pledged to review its procedures to prevent similar mistakes and restore public confidence in its journalism. As Catherine continues her recovery and returns to public life, the importance of accuracy and respect in media coverage remains a central concern for both the broadcaster and its audience. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between tradition, public service, and the evolving expectations of national institutions in the digital age.