Rose Hanbury released a statement through her lawyers denying the rumors of an affair with Prince William. The rumors were fueled by speculation about Kate Middleton’s absence from public duties since January 2024, when she underwent abdominal surgery.
To better understand the unfolding drama, it’s essential to know who Rose Hanbury is and how she is connected to the United Kingdom’s aristocratic network.
Rose Hanbury, 40, holds the title of Marchioness of Cholmondeley and is a former model who has also worked in politics. She is married to David Cholmondeley, 63, the seventh Marquess of Cholmondeley, and they have three children.
The Hanbury family has deep ties with the royals; their youngest son was the prestigious page of honor at the recent coronation of King Charles. Rose’s grandmother, Lady Lambart, enjoyed a close friendship with Queen Elizabeth II, having served as one of her bridesmaids, demonstrating the longstanding connection between the Hanburys and the British monarchy.
The nexus of this royal controversy centers around the Hanburys’ proximity to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, with their Norfolk estate lying close to William and Kate’s country residence. Despite rumors of a cooling relationship between the two families, Rose’s aristocratic ties have ensured her presence remains within the same elite circles.
However, recent events and media coverage have reignited the rumblings of an affair between Rose and Prince William, which first surfaced in 2019. Amidst Kate Middleton’s notable absence from public appearances, talk show hosts and online platforms have speculated wildly, bringing the whispers of the past back to the forefront. Notably, the issue has caught the attention of television personality Stephen Colbert, who discussed the rumors on his show, introducing them to a broader audience.
Through it all, Rose Hanbury has unequivocally denied the affair through her legal team, stating that such claims are entirely baseless, a stance mirrored by the silence from the palace on these personal matters.
Prince William, 41, has responded to these rumors, with his legal team previously warning media outlets for disseminating false and potentially harmful speculation. This proactive stance highlights the royal family’s serious approach to protecting their privacy and reputation.
As the royal family continues to navigate this period of intense public scrutiny, official communications have focused on Middleton’s health and recovery post-surgery.
