Kate Middleton's Superstar Status Was on Display at Royal Family Christmas Walk at Sandringham

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It was a very merry holiday for Kate Middleton as she joined the royal family for their annual Christmas Day walk to St. Mary Magdalene Church at Sandringham. The event marked the end of a long year for the Princess of Wales as she battled cancer. With her health back on the right track, Kate was in her element dazzling the crowds with her superstar status.

The Sandringham appearance marked the first time Kate mingled with the crowds of fans since Christmas Day 2023, per People. It was a hopeful signal that the royal family can put the year’s sadness behind them and look forward to a brighter future. The excitement to have the Princess of Wales back was palpable as she embraced dozens of floral bouquets gifted to her — they were often overflowing in her arms. She was spotted hugging royal fans, smiling, and even joking, “I think I’ve lost my family” as she lagged behind Prince William and their children who had already left the area.

That is a habit everyone in the royal family “teases” her about, but it is a sign that the old Kate is back. “There’s a real art to walkabouts, everybody teases me in the family that I spend far too long chatting,” Kate shared in the 2016 BBC documentary, Elizabeth at 90: A Family Tribute. “I still have to learn a little bit more, and to pick up a few more tips, I suppose.”

The start of 2024 was supposed to be Kate and William’s year as they were described as the “jewels in the crown” by royal expert Jennie Bond to OK! Magazine. “She has nailed being royal and yet still relatable. She is the shining star of a modern monarchy, and it’s no surprise that King Charles refers to her as his ‘beloved daughter-in-law,’” said Bond.

Those plans to push the Prince and Princess of Wales further into the spotlight were thwarted by Kate’s “planned abdominal surgery” that turned out to be cancer. She kept her public appearances to an all-time low as her health became her core focus. That turned out to be a wise move because she was able to announce the end of her chemotherapy treatment with a cinematic video that showcased her new lease on life (and quite a bit of PDA with William).

Kate might still be cautious in the upcoming year because she knows she’s “not out of the woods yet,” but the royal family is thrilled that their superstar is back in the fold.

Before you go, click here to see more of Kate Middleton’s best royal fashion moments.