Archive · 17 Nov 2025
BBC Apologizes for Incorrectly Referring to Catherine, Princess of Wales
The BBC is saying sorry because their news channel didn't use the right name for Kate, the Princess of Wales.
During a special broadcast for Armistice Day, they called her 'Kate Middleton' instead of her official title, 'Catherine, Princess of Wales.'
Some people watching were not happy about this and complained.
The BBC said it was a mistake during a long broadcast and that they usually use her correct title.
The Princess of Wales herself was at a remembrance event that day and shared a message about remembering people who served.
The BBC apologized for referring to Catherine, Princess of Wales, as 'Kate Middleton' during Armistice Day coverage.
Viewer complaints prompted the apology from the British national broadcaster.
MP Jim Shannon criticized the BBC, stating the Princess of Wales has not been 'Kate Middleton' since 2011 and her correct title is 'Catherine, Princess of Wales'.
The BBC explained the usage of the incorrect name as 'errors during hours of live broadcasting'.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, attended the National Memorial Arboretum and delivered a video message about remembrance.
- Who
- The BBC, Catherine, Princess of Wales (referred to as Kate Middleton), and MP Jim Shannon
- What
- The BBC apologized for failing to use the correct title 'Catherine, Princess of Wales' for Kate Middleton during Armistice Day coverage, instead referring to her as 'Kate Middleton'.
- When
- During live Armistice Day coverage on Tuesday, November 8, 2022.
- Where
- On the BBC News channel and at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
- Why
- The BBC cited 'errors during hours of live broadcasting' after viewer complaints and criticism from MP Jim Shannon regarding the incorrect use of the Princess of Wales's title.
BBC's Explanation
Criticism and Viewer Reaction
Title Usage
BBC's Explanation
The BBC stated that referring to Catherine, Princess of Wales as 'Kate Middleton' were 'errors during hours of live broadcasting' and apologized, adding that her correct title was used more broadly during coverage.
Criticism and Viewer Reaction
Viewers and MP Jim Shannon expressed disapproval, emphasizing that the Princess of Wales has not been known as 'Kate Middleton' since 2011 and her correct title should be used.
- Event
- Armistice Day Coverage
- Date of Event
- Tuesday, November 8, 2022 (implied by 'last Tuesday')
- Broadcaster
- BBC News channel
- Incorrect Title Used
- Kate Middleton
- Correct Title
- Catherine, Princess of Wales
- Location of Princess's Attendance
- National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire
- MP Criticizing BBC
- Jim Shannon