Kate Middleton 'side-lined' at royal event as fans compare her to Princess Diana

Royal fans have been left wondering whether Kate Middleton is being 'side-lined' after she missed out on one of the Firm's biggest events of the year.

The Princess of Wales was absent from the white tie Diplomatic Corps reception at Buckingham Palace last night (Tuesday, November 19), hosted by King Charles and attended by Queen Camilla and Prince William. The event sees the Royal Family usher in the start of the festive season each year as 500 diplomats are invited to drink and dance at the palace.

Kate – who completed chemotherapy treatment for cancer in September – began her gradual return to work earlier this month. Her first two public appearances following the treatment came consecutively at the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall and the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday.

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However, she has not yet resumed the busy schedule she had before she became ill, and did not attend last night's event. Some fans have now been left questioning whether the future Queen has been 'side-lined'. Former Dragon's Den contestant Martyn Gould posted to his TikTok channel, Ministry of Hacks UK, where he claimed Kate had been "benched at one of the most prestigious events of the year."

"I feel sorry for Kate," he said. "She's clearly been side-lined."

He went on to say: "My thoughts are with Kate, I think she's been treated in a Diana-style fashion." Others were quick to chime in, with one commenting: "She’s been benched. My girl looooves a tiara photo op."

Another added: "I was so surprised that William being driven by himself! [...] Catherine and the kids were the only bright lights in the RF. Sad all the way around."

However, not everyone agreed. One person wrote: "Sidelined? She's the future queen," followed by a cry-laughing emoji.

Kate's absence last night is likely because she is busy planning other festive occasions. The Princess is said have her sights set on the annual Christmas Carol Concert, which will take place in two weeks' time at Westminster Abbey.

Kate did attend the event last year, wowing crowds in a sparkling pink Jenny Packham gown and the Lover's Knot tiara. There, along with Charles, Camilla and William, they greeted guests as they formed a greeting line, followed by a a drinks reception and buffet dinner before dancing in the palace ballroom – although the royals departed before the reception began.