Persuasive Media Framing Manipulated Sympathy for Princess Kate Middleton
- L J Louis
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
In a compelling example of media framing, Sky News recently published the headline, "'Disappointed': Princess Kate a no-show at Royal Ascot despite being listed in the official carriage procession amid post-cancer 'phased' return to duties." This headline not only shapes the narrative around Princess Catherine in a sympathetic light but also continues a storyline that could potentially mislead the public regarding her current health status. How many times will she return after her ‘cancer-cell’ diagnosis?
Although Princess Catherine has been reported in excellent health, the media persists in emphasizing her past ‘battle’ with cancer cells. This narrative aims to evoke sympathy, framing her as a figure who has triumphed over adversity, even when such context is irrelevant to her current situation. Moreover, the focus on her alleged cancer distracts from the stark reality of the 186,000 new cancer cases diagnosed in women each year and the 78,000 women who succumb to the disease annually. Let’s point out that the other women don’t have the privilege of Kate Middleton and don’t have the luxury of showing up to glamorous events and waving. They are burdened with real jobs, often many jobs to support their family, and they have no choice but to show up and get the paycheck to feed their children. This continued focus illustrates a strategic manipulation of public sentiment, raising significant ethical concerns regarding journalistic integrity.
Princess Catherine, aged 43, was set to grace the esteemed Royal Ascot on Wednesday, with her presence highlighted in the official schedule. She was expected to join notable dignitaries, including her husband, Prince William, aged 42, the King and Queen, and other senior royals in the highly anticipated royal procession. Her presence in the second carriage alongside Prince William was eagerly awaited, generating a buzz of excitement among attendees.
However, in a surprising twist, just under thirty minutes after the announcement of the carriage list by Ascot officials, Kensington Palace revealed Catherine’s withdrawal. This unexpected decision led to the issuance of a revised procession line-up, leaving fans and attendees in disbelief. It’s okay for her to change her mind or to have faced some other challenges that prevented her from attending, but why this manipulated headline?
The constant talk about her "post-cancer 'phased' return to duties" shows how the media can shape what people think. This choice of words hints at a never-ending battle, which may not really capture where she is now. While it's totally important to recognize her past health issues, this continuous focus could overshadow what she’s doing now, her role as a working royal.
Focusing on Princess Catherine’s past health issues really tugs at the audience's heartstrings and makes them feel sympathetic. This kind of storytelling can shape how people see her and even shift focus away from other important things she does, like her contributions to royal duties and public events.
Media framing is part of how news is reported, but it's important for journalists and the public to be aware of the stories being told. For public figures like Princess Catherine, the focus should really be on what she's doing now and where she stands today, instead of getting stuck on past events that might not really reflect who she is anymore.
Persuasive Media Framing Manipulated Sympathy for Princess Kate Middleton
L J Louis is an enthusiastic traveler, aspiring artist, and passionate writer of both fiction and non-fiction who loves exploring new cuisines. She is also a dedicated advocate for women's rights. With an impressive educational background, she holds a double major in psychology and criminology (BA), a Bachelor of Laws (Hons LLB), and an advanced diploma in fitness and health promotion. L J Louis shares her insights through engaging content on topics such as human sexuality, sex positivity, health, psychology, and even Meghan Markle.
Comments