Princess Anne bows to King Charles III, Kate and William look on

On a rare day marked by tradition, Prince William kissed the king’s cheek as Kate Middleton and Princess Royal bowed to King Charles III during his arrival at Westminster Abbey for Commonwealth Day celebrations. Queen Camilla greeted her son and daughter-in-law with a curtsy, prompting questions about past familial dynamics.

The moment brought memories of a reported rift between Princess Anne and Queen Camilla, who had previously been acquainted through their respective relationships with the Duke of York. Some speculated that Anne’s reluctance to curtsy was a nod to her previous relationship with Charles, suggesting it might have lingered in the form of a lingering bond despite their different paths after he married.

Veteran journalist James Whitaker’s 1993 book “Diana vs. Charles” hinted at earlier tensions between Anne and Camilla. In his account, Parker Bowles, a former suitor of both Princess Anne and Charles, had been seen spending time with the princess before her marriage to Prince William. However, due to religious differences and Anne’s interest in other men like Earl Alexander of Tunis’s brother, Brian Alexander, their relationship ultimately faded.

The interaction at Westminster Abbey served as a poignant reminder of a chapter between royal family members that has long since passed, but continues to intrigue observers keen on uncovering the complexities within the monarchy.