James Middleton
In his forthcoming memoir, “Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life,” which will be released on Thursday, September 26, 2024, James Middleton offers a candid look into his experience as part of one of the most-watched royal weddings in history.
James, brother to Princess Catherine (formerly Kate Middleton), reveals the behind-the-scenes story of his Bible reading at Catherine and Prince William’s wedding on April 29, 2011. The excerpt, published by the Daily Mail on Sunday, September 15, 2024, provides a touching glimpse into the personal challenges he faced and overcame.
When asked to perform a reading at Westminster Abbey, James initially thought his sister and soon-to-be brother-in-law were joking. “My mind raced back to school and my stumbling, incoherent efforts to read in front of the class,” he writes, openly discussing his struggles with dyslexia.
James was determined not to let the couple down despite his initial hesitation. He sought help from voice coach Anthony Gordon Lennox and prepared using a phonetic version of the reading. On the big day, he entered Westminster Abbey “awestruck all over again by its grandeur and magnificence.”
In a moment of nervousness, James decided not to look at Catherine and William while reading, fearing he might “erupt into nervous giggles.” However, his anxiety dissipated as he spoke and saw “happy faces” before him.
The reading, broadcast to an estimated billion people worldwide, was a resounding success. James humorously notes that he received “thousands of messages and invitations to read lessons at churches around the globe that would have given me scope for a Bible-reading world tour.”
This heartwarming anecdote provides insight into a pivotal moment in royal history and showcases James Middleton’s personal growth and the strength of his family bonds. It’s a testament to overcoming personal challenges in the face of immense public pressure, adding a human touch to an event often viewed through a lens of regal perfection.
As we approach the 13th anniversary of the royal wedding next April, James Middleton’s memoir promises to offer more intimate glimpses into life adjacent to the British royal family while also exploring his journey of resilience and self-discovery. US Magazine