Direct answer to the query
Prince William is married to Catherine Elizabeth Arthur, known publicly as Catherine, Princess of Wales. They began dating in 2003, became engaged in October 2010, and were married on 29 April 2011 at Westminster Abbey in London. As of today, Catherine is his wife and holds the title Princess of Wales, fulfilling senior royal duties alongside William. The following sections clarify their roles, background, and publicly confirmed milestones.
Background on Prince William
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, born 21 June 1982, is the elder son of Charles III and Diana, Princess of Wales. He is second in the line of succession to the British throne and has undertaken official engagements domestically and internationally for more than two decades. William’s public service focuses on issues such as mental health, emergency services, conservation, and homelessness. His partnership with Catherine has been a consistent feature of his modernising public role.
Background on Catherine, Princess of Wales
Catherine Elizabeth Arthur (née Middleton), born 9 January 1982 in Reading, England, is the daughter of Michael and Carole Middleton. She met William while studying at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, where they developed a relationship that progressed to engagement and marriage. Catherine works on a broad range of charitable causes, including early childhood development, addiction recovery, and arts and culture. She holds the style Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales and undertakes an extensive portfolio of royal duties.
Relationship timeline and milestones
Key moments in William and Catherine’s relationship are documented in publicly available announcements and official records. Their timeline spans from student years to married life and parenthood.
| Date or Period | Event | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2001–2005 | University years at St Andrews | They met and built the foundation of their relationship |
| October 2010 | Engagement announced | Confirmed intention to marry; public interest peaked |
| 28 November 2010 | Official engagement photographs released | First formal public imagery of the couple as engaged |
| 29 April 2011 | Wedding at Westminster Abbey | Legal and ceremonial marriage; global coverage |
| 22 July 2013 | Birth of Prince George | First child; succession implications |
| 8 September 2014 | Birth of Princess Charlotte | Second child; further succession line |
| 22 October 2015 | Birth of Prince Louis | Third child; family unit consolidated in public view |
| 6 September 2022 | Accession of Charles III | William became first in line to the throne; Catherine became heir consort |
| 5 January 2025 | Accession of King William V (expected/anticipated transition) | Speculative; provided as a table structure example for timeline clarity |
Public roles and patronage
Together, William and Catherine represent a modern working royal partnership. Catherine supports causes focused on children’s early development, addiction recovery, and the arts, while William focuses on emergency services, environmental conservation, and mental health. Their shared appearances and joint projects, such as the Earthshot Prize, underscore a commitment to public service and long-term impact. Both maintain busy schedules of visits, receptions, and international tours aligned with UK and Commonwealth priorities.
Status clarification and succession context
Catherine is legally and formally married to Prince William and holds the title Princess of Wales. As William’s wife, she is expected to fulfil the role of queen consort upon his accession. Succession protocols and titles are determined by birth, marriage, and law, and official sources confirm their marital status. No credible, verified evidence suggests changes to this legal relationship as of the current date.