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BBC Apologizes for Calling Princess of Wales "Kate Middleton"
17 Nov, 2025
Summary
- BBC mistakenly referred to Catherine, Princess of Wales as "Kate Middleton"
- Viewer complaints led BBC to issue an apology
- MP Jim Shannon criticized BBC for not using Catherine's correct title
On November 17, 2025, the BBC issued an apology for mistakenly referring to Catherine, Princess of Wales as "Kate Middleton" during its live Armistice Day broadcast. The British national broadcaster stated that these were "errors" that occurred during the hours of live coverage, for which it apologized.
The BBC explained that throughout its broader Armistice Day coverage, it had correctly referred to Catherine by her proper title. However, the use of the term "errors" suggests the Princess of Wales' former name was used multiple times during the live broadcast.
The incident sparked viewer complaints, with MP Jim Shannon of Northern Ireland reminding the BBC that Catherine has not been "Kate Middleton" since 2011. He urged the broadcaster to ensure its presenters use the Princess' correct title going forward.
During the Armistice Day event last Tuesday, Catherine attended the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where she delivered a video message honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who served.
