‘Less Qualified’ or ‘Absolute Hero’: Users React as Princess Catherine Makes the Shortlist for Time’s Person of the Year

Princess Catherine became the focus of media buzz after being named a finalist for TIME magazine’s coveted “Person of the Year” award on December 9. While some celebrate her as a symbol of resilience and strength, others question whether the 42-year-old royal truly deserves the honor.

One user bluntly stated, “If anyone could be less qualified to recieve [sic] such an honor… 🙄.” A skeptic commented, “This is gross. There is nothing she has done this year or any other to earn that title.”

Someone else expressed disbelief, “OMG that is so funny and so very sad that someone actually thought that she was worthy 🤷‍♀️.” Another chimed in, “Really! 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️For what being a spouse?”

Another critic shared, “There are more deserving people out there who do great things everyday. I take my hat off to Kate she has been through it this year and it is scary but no I do think there is someone else who deserves it way more.”

More users argued that others deserved the recognition while another speculated that she might not even want the title.

Despite the negative reactions, some expressed excitement for Catherine. “She is my absolute hero. What a beautiful and strong woman she is. An absolute credit to the Royal family ❤️,” a fan gushed.

Another supported Catherine’s shortlisting for the award, highlighting her strength and bravery during her battle with cancer.

TIME’s recognition comes after a challenging year for Catherine. In January, she underwent abdominal surgery, sparking rumors about her absence until March, when she revealed her cancer diagnosis.

On June 14, she shared a heartfelt photo on Instagram, her first public appearance since announcing her battle with cancer. Captured by photographer Matt Porteous, the image depicted the Princess beside a majestic tree, symbolizing resilience amidst her treatment.

In her Instagram caption, the Princess expressed profound gratitude, “I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement,” and acknowledged the significant impact of these gestures on her and Prince William.

She also discussed the realities of chemotherapy, “On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting. But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well.”

Despite this ordeal, she stayed positive and grateful. She concluded, “Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me.”

Amid her health challenges, Catherine maintained her royal duties.

The very next day, June 15, Catherine attended the Trooping the Colour ceremony in London alongside William and their children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. This event marked her first public appearance since revealing her diagnosis.

The family arrived at Buckingham Palace to participate in the annual celebration honoring the official birthday of the British Sovereign.

The event showcased over 1,000 soldiers and hundreds of horses in a grand parade. It has been a tradition since 1748, during the reign of King Charles II. Amid the spectacle, Catherine appeared composed and graceful, dressed elegantly, and engaged in the ceremonial activities.

Observers and supporters praised Catherine’s courage and dignity during this difficult time. Her presence at such a significant event highlighted her commitment to royal duties and determination to maintain normalcy amidst personal health trials.

In September, she announced the completion of her chemotherapy, earning widespread admiration for her resilience and transparency.

While Catherine has resumed her royal duties, some observers noted that she appeared stressed and subdued.

On December 3, she joined William and the royal family in welcoming the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani, who were in the UK at King Charles’ invitation for a state visit.

True to her reputation for timeless style, Catherine turned heads in a striking monochrome look. She wore a long maroon coat, paired flawlessly with a matching beret, leather boots, gloves, and a petite handbag. A pearl necklace and earrings added understated elegance to her ensemble.

As her photos circulated online, some eagle-eyed fans expressed concern. Observers commented that Catherine appeared “so sad,” while another noted she looked “so stressed.”

Given her cancer diagnosis earlier this year, many expressed concern about her health, noting that she appeared tired and that the challenges of the year had visibly impacted her appearance.

More comments poured in, with some users noting that Catherine appeared drained in the photos. Observers mentioned her looking visibly thin and expressed hopes for her continued recovery.

Others highlighted Catherine’s beauty and poise, praising her radiant appearance and expressing happiness to see her resuming her royal duties.

Some royal fans expressed excitement about Catherine’s appearance, remarking on how well she looked. Others shared words of encouragement, advising her to prioritize her health and ensure a full recovery despite her busy schedule.

Another commenter expressed admiration for the Princess’s appearance and shared hopes for her health, strength, and long life as a future queen.

Catherine remained the center of attention throughout the Qatar state visit, as the royal family carried out their formal duties. The visit began with a grand welcome at Horse Guards, where Charles greeted the Amir of Qatar.

The Amir inspected a Guard of Honour formed by the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards in a display of British pageantry.

Later, Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a lavish State Banquet at Buckingham Palace. The event, held in the grandeur of the palace’s Ballroom, brought together 150 distinguished guests, including the Qatari royals and senior members of the British Royal Family.

As the visit concluded, the Prince and Princess of Wales’ official Instagram account treated followers to a behind-the-scenes glimpse.

The shared photos captured key moments from the visit, offering fans a closer look at the royal engagements. While the occasion celebrated diplomatic ties, Catherine’s presence and poise were the true highlights for many royal enthusiasts.

Despite divided opinions from netizens, Princess Catherine‘s nomination for TIME’s “Person of the Year” highlights her resilience and impact during a challenging year.

This isn’t the first time TIME has recognized her. She was a runner-up for the same honor in 2011 and appeared on the TIME100 list of Most Influential People in 2013.