The Princess of Wales has been dubbed a "gatekeeper" by sources who have now given a hint into what the public should expect as the royal braces for her "hugely influential role" within the monarchy. Princess Kate, who has long ranked as one of the most popular members of the Royal Family, has managed to balance her private and public life well since marrying the future King back in 2011.

The royal had a challenging year in 2024, after she was diagnosed with an unspecified type of cancer, for which she had treatment and is now in remission. Despite the obstacles, the mother of three remains committed to the crown and is particularly aware of what her role will be when Prince William's time on the throne comes.

According to The Times, "several sources" who know the Waleses well, claimed that Kate has "always seen her role as a supporting one".

They said that the princess is understood to have been inspired by the late Prince Philip and how he supported Queen Elizabeth during her reign, while also making a major contribution of his own.

The outlet stressed: "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, and that everyone understands that this is the deal."

Elsewhere, the sources noted how the princess is "hugely influential behind the scenes" and that the Wales couple make a "good double act".

They said: "She’s hugely influential behind the scenes in hiring and decision-making and they approach it as a team.

"Like the late Queen and Prince Philip, and the King and Queen, they’re a good double act."

They added: "Three words come to mind when I think of William. Normal, private, control.

"These are the things he wants: as normal a life as possible; private time for his family; and control over how he organises his life and work.

"Kate is just as strong on control and privacy as him. In that glare of publicity and scrutiny, they are very tight, very close, very strong, and cancer has made them closer and stronger, which is very common in families facing these challenges."