With the recent British invasion on American television, I have found myself pondering what is “princess-worthy” television. Sick of Real Housewives of Mediocrity and Jersey Whores, I needed a dose of unAmerican shows to fill my downtime.
I think it began with X Factor, when Americans were suddenly drawn from washed-up American Idol and into a new sort of musical talent show, first successful on British TVs. Around the same time, Downton Abbey aired on PBS. For years, both the UK and USA have aired seasons of Big Brother, and with the recent American addition of Made in Chelsea, I took the time to research what Kate might flip on the telly when she’s relaxing after a busy afternoon.
It’s hard to imagine someone so high-profile sitting on the couch in fuzzy socks and sweatpants, but I am convinced everyone, even our beloved Duchess of Cambridge, needs some TV time.
The one show that I was sure Kate watches is Downton Abbey. We were delighted when Allen Leech, who plays Tom Branson, talked about his meeting with Prince William. Prince William told him that he loves the show, and that he and Kate watch it regularly. Since George was born, Kate and William spend those sleepless nights following Mary, Lord Grantham and *sniffles* Matthew. International success, incredible acting, and addictive plot keep Kate cuddled up with Wills, George and Downton Abbey. Please enjoy this hilarious meme to brighten your day.
We know Kate loves Mary Berry – her recipes and her character are beloved by all – and the Duchess is a keen baker and cook. The UK is smitten with the Great British Bake Off. The televised baking competition has taken the country by storm, inspiring bakers and homemakers to go from store bought Twinkies to homemade Victoria Sponges. Kate must love the show, with its patriotism, exciting competitions, and cake.
I can also imagine Kate following the X Factor. A huge part of the British culture, X Factor has brought some great talent into the music business. The show was recreated in America to resounding success. What might appear as just another singing competition has actually led to the success of acts such as Leona Lewis and One Direction. We know Kate like Cheryl Cole, so I imagine she tuned in to watch Cheryl judge during seasons six and seven.
We all have guilty pleasures, even the classiest among us. It may be hard to fathom, but I bet even Kate buys into those trashy reality shows. My bet on her favorite guilty pleasure show would be My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding. I can just see her laughing at the pompousness and awful grandeur. Even though her wedding was quite an event, the weddings you see on this show are irresponsibly chavvy.
As for the new breed of “Docu-Soaps,” the shows where real people are placed in strategic situations without scripts, I’m not convinced Kate would buy in. Despite the horrible addictiveness of The Only Way is Essex or Made in Chelsea, it might just be too much for her to handle. From the Chelsea girls claiming to be aristocrats, to the sheer excess of silicone on TOWIE, the duchess might pass on this category.
Just like the rest of us, some nights Kate will curl up with a cuppa tea, a warm blanket, and her remote control.
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