Others Before Me! - Kate's Loving Crusade

The duchess is just glowing in her new role

- Judy Kean

She was already soaring in the popularity stakes. But since COVID-19 has hit, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, has proved herself to be the royal family’s MVP (Most Valuable Player). Conscientious, unflappable, warm and hard-working, the future queen has been shining in 2020, and it’s not just because she no longer has to share the spotlight with her sister-in-law Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.

She has worked tirelessly carrying out official duties, often alongside husband Prince William, during the pandemic – including connecting with people via Zoom when restrictions meant she was stuck at home.

With the Queen, 94, whisked off to isolate with Prince Philip at Windsor Castle, then Balmoral, because of her age, and Meghan and Prince Harry out of the loop thanks to stepping down from their royal roles, William and Kate have become the family figureheads for a country in crisis, and risen admirably to the role.

From a socially distanced meeting with ambulance drivers to online conversations with the children of essential workers and toasting marshmallows with Scouts to praise their pandemic efforts, Kate has been winning people over with her genuine concern and interest in how their lives have been affected by the coronavirus.

She’s also endeared herself by sharing photos of their children, Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, five, and two-year-old Prince Louis doing everyday things like finger painting and playing with their dad, as well as taking part in charitable endeavours like delivering meals to neighbours.