Prince William and Princess Kate’s relationship has often been viewed as one of the most perfect examples of royal love. From their college days at the University of St. Andrews to their fairytale wedding in 2011, the couple has faced public scrutiny, private challenges, and the intense spotlight that comes with being part of the British royal family.
However, in 2019, rumors about a possible affair between Prince William and one of Kate’s close friends, Rose Hanbury, shocked both royal fans and the public. These allegations became a significant topic of tabloid discussion, with whispers suggesting that the friendship between Kate and Rose had soured, possibly due to William’s reported infidelity.
A Friendship Turned Sour?
Rose Hanbury, the Marchioness of Cholmondeley, has long been part of the royal circle. She is married to David Cholmondeley, and their families have shared ties with the royals, with their homes in Norfolk being close to the Cambridges’ residence, Anmer Hall. Kate and Rose reportedly had a strong friendship, having double-dated with their respective husbands in the past. They also worked together on charitable causes, such as the East Anglia Children’s Hospice.
In 2019, rumors surfaced that Kate had confronted William about an alleged affair with Rose. Reports suggested that William had “laughed it off” and denied the rumors. However, the tabloid headlines quickly spread, claiming a rift had formed between the two women. It didn’t help that the two families lived near each other in Norfolk, which only fueled further speculation.
Setting the Record Straight
While the rumors were rampant, both the royal family and insiders quickly dismissed the allegations. A Daily Mail royal expert insisted that the claims were “fake news,” and there was no evidence to support the affair rumors. A source close to the couple also stated that both William and Kate were “hurt” by the suggestions, with their friends, including Rose and her husband, David, finding the rumors absurd.
In fact, as more time passed, reports began to suggest that there was no strain between Kate and Rose. For instance, in 2021, it was revealed that Kate had attended a music festival at Rose and David’s estate, Houghton Hall, alongside her other friends, including Rose herself. Kate appeared in high spirits at the event, further dispelling the rumors of any fallout between the two women.
Rose Hanbury: A Closer Look
Rose Hanbury, once a model and later a political researcher, is no stranger to the royal spotlight. She comes from a prestigious background, with her maternal grandmother being one of Queen Elizabeth II’s bridesmaids. Her marriage to David Cholmondeley, the Marquess of Cholmondeley, has kept her in close proximity to the royal family, and the two families have maintained a cordial relationship over the years.
Despite the rumors, Rose and Kate’s relationship appears to have remained intact. Reports indicate that both women have continued their social engagements, even attending a music festival together in the Norfolk countryside. These interactions suggest that the alleged feud was simply a product of tabloid gossip rather than reality.
Conclusion
The 2019 affair rumors surrounding Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Rose Hanbury may have been shocking at the time, but the lack of evidence and continued public appearances by the involved parties suggest that they were unfounded. While royal relationships are often scrutinized under a microscope, the bond between Prince William and Princess Kate remains strong, as does their friendship with Rose Hanbury. As with many royal rumors, time and facts seem to have cleared the air, reinforcing that these claims were nothing more than baseless speculation.
