Celebrating Princess Kate’s Second Act: Embracing Midlife at 44
Celebrating Princess Kate’s Second Act: Embracing Midlife at 44
The Princess of Wales is celebrating her 44th birthday today. While many still view Princess Kate as a symbol of young royalty, she is now officially middle-aged. Scientifically, midlife begins in the mid-forties for both men and women. According to startling 2024 research from Stanford University, aging occurs in two significant bursts, with the first beginning at exactly 44, marking the start of midlife.
Reframing Midlife
Let’s reframe this perspective. Kate is now in her second act, and as someone just a few months ahead of her, I can reassure the princess and anyone else approaching middle age that it can be a wonderful phase. Another study found that 44 is when we become more content and stable. Given everything she has been through in recent years, this sentiment is just as relevant to the Princess of Wales as it is to the average person.
While the royal and I lead very different lives, I’ve always felt a connection with the princess. For a good decade, she has been my life stage buddy and imaginary mom friend. We were pregnant at the same time, and I remember feeling grateful that my pregnancies didn’t involve battling hyperemesis gravidarum while looking elegant and glowing in front of the global media.
Thriving in Midlife
Now, both of us are officially in our second acts, with our baby days long behind us. This brings a little more freedom to everything from our wardrobes to our careers. Princess Kate knows better than most that growing older is truly a privilege, and her recent experiences have reminded a whole generation that health problems don’t discriminate.
Those of us born between 1980 and 1985, like the future queen, are considered “geriatric millennials” or “Xennials.” While the title might sound bleak, it’s an excellent group to be part of. Some of the biggest stars in the world are among our flock, from multi-hyphenate powerhouses like Meghan Markle, Kim Kardashian, and Beyoncé, to the pop icons we grew up with, like Britney and Christina. This is a generation with staying power and first-name recognition.
