Michael Middleton just turned 75 years old on what has undoubtedly been one of his most difficult birthdays: for months, he and his wife Carole have supported their eldest daughter, Kate Middleton in his fight against cancer. A few days ago, we were able to see them at a public event for the first time since their daughter’s diagnosis: the two joined their son-in-law, Prince William, and other members of the royal family on the second day of the Ascot races. After all, both have always been present at the most important royal events (we were also able to see them at the coronation of Charles III), but above all they have always maintained a very good relationship with their son-in-law, the future ruler of England.
According to the great Tina Brown, William has “adopted” his in-laws from the beginning of his relationship with Kate. There are many episodes, even in the past, that confirm the closeness of their bond. One especially significant one was Christmas 2012, which William spent at the Middleton home and not at Sandringham with the royal family. A decision that caused a stir at the time: the prince had broken a tradition that seemed immutable. In the last difficult months, Guillermo and his in-laws would have become even closer, according to the British press. Thanks to Michael and Carole, always at Kate’s side and little George, Charlotte and Louis, the prince can fulfill his royal obligations while enjoying some peace of mind.
In recent years, the tabloid press has paid special attention to Carole, although not always for the better.: Guillermo’s mother-in-law has often been portrayed as an ambitious woman, eager to climb the social ladder. Much less has been said, however, about her husband Michael. But what do we know about him? Born in Leeds in 1949 and son of Peter Middleton and Valerie Glassborow, a family with aristocratic roots, after graduating from the University of Surrey Michael wanted to follow in the footsteps of his father, a Royal Air Force pilot. He attended British European Airways school, but preferred to stay on the ground rather than take to the skies, so he became an air traffic controller. That’s how he met his future wife, Carole. The two married on June 21, 1980 at St. James Church, Buckinghamshire.. Two years later, Catherine, the future princess, was born, followed in 1983 by Pippa and in 1987 by James.
Michael and Carole, who live in Bucklebury, Berkshire, They made a fortune in the 80s with their company Party Pieces, dedicated to the sale of party supplies and supplies. The company is currently bankrupt and the British press claims that the parents of the current Princess of Wales, who sold it in 2023, owe more than two million pounds. However, at this time the health of her eldest daughter will be the priority. And so, for Michael, this will undoubtedly have been one of the most difficult birthdays of his life.
Original article published by Vanity Fair Italia. Access here.
