Inside the Pileup of Problems Facing the Royal Family

But even when all of the above—from the British Empire’s notorious history to Andrew’s scandal to the queen’s physical (if not reputational) mortality—is considered, the expert adds, “Lots of people in the country, even those who don’t support the idea of a monarchy anymore, still have a soft spot for the queen. I think all of this points to the fact that the monarchy’s reputation relies on being maintained,” now and after her reign. “And there’s a big question mark over whether that will be the case.”

Subsequently, Sacerdoti wouldn’t be surprised if William and Kate are still regrouping from their rocky tour, with more foresight as to what people in the U.K. and beyond really want from them on their agenda moving forward.

“I think a lot of questions will be asked,” he said, “in terms of how they could have gotten something that wrong and how they can improve on it in the future.”

And the old royal adage of “never complain, never explain” probably won’t cut it—or at least that second part definitely won’t—as they attempt to keep calm and carry on.

—With reporting by Beth Sobol