Carole Middleton was left out as Princess Kate broke from tradition.
It was previously suggested by a royal commentator that the Princess of Wales, 43, would publicly honour her mother on Mother's Day.
Carole, 70, and her husband, Michael Middleton, 75, provided Kate with significant support during her cancer treatment last year.
The close bond between Kate and her parents was evident in her cancer recovery video last summer. The Middletons were filmed playing cards with their grandchildren in heartwarming scenes.
Carole Middleton left out as Princess Kate breaks from tradition
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Royal commentator Jennie Bond suggested that Kate would likely want to publicly thank her own mother for her support during the past year.
"Whether Carole and Mike will decide to spend the day with the Waleses or their other children, we don't of course know," she told the Mirror.
However, the Princess of Wales broke from royal tradition this Mother's Day by choosing not to share a family photograph with her children or her mother, Carole.
Instead, Kate opted for a nature video accompanied by an emotional message.
Over the past year, nature has been our sanctuary. This Mother’s Day, let us celebrate Mother Nature and recognise how our bond with the natural world can help not only nurture our inner selves, but remind us too of the role we play within the rich tapestry of life. C pic.twitter.com/kAzkdmZ457
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 30, 2025
Kensington Palace shared a completely different type of Mother's Day message on Sunday. Instead of a family portrait, the Palace posted a montage video featuring scenic shots of nature.
The video was accompanied by a personal message from Kate herself.
"Over the past year, nature has been our sanctuary," she wrote.
"This Mother's Day, let us celebrate Mother Nature and recognise how our bond with the natural world can help not only nurture our inner selves, but remind us too of the role we play within the rich tapestry of life."
Princess Kate shared the image to mark Mother's Day in 2024
X / KensingtonRoyalThe move comes after last year's controversial Mother's Day photo sparked a scandal when it was discovered to be heavily photoshopped.
Royal observers noted this appeared to be a protective measure for her children - Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
The decision marked a significant departure from previous years when the Princess would typically share intimate family portraits to mark the occasion.
Last year, Kate faced significant health challenges after undergoing abdominal surgery. Her absence from public view fuelled widespread speculation and rumours.
James Middleton and Carole Middleton attending Kate's weddingPAIn an attempt to quell concerns, the Princess shared a Mother's Day photo with her three children. However, the image quickly became the centre of controversy when it was discovered to be heavily manipulated.
A "kill notice" was subsequently issued for the photo, instructing media outlets to remove it from circulation. The incident occurred during what was already a difficult period for the Royal Family.
The Photoshop scandal created additional pressure at a time when Kate was focusing on her recovery.
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