Ultimately, though, it was Kate herself who made the plan to make a statement.

“She felt she had to do it because of who she is.

It was more that she knows she is a public figure and has a wider leadership responsibility.”

Kate Middleton smiling

The act of simply avoiding the public eye sparked overwhelming concern and widespread theories.

The way she told her story was a smart choice, too.

Kate Middleton on TV

Kate Middleton and Prince William smiling