Kate Middleton 'stepping out of shadows' and public ready to 'adore her like Diana'

Kate Middleton is reportedly stepping out of shadows and the public are ready to adore her like Diana, claims one royal commentator.

In the weeks following the bombshell interview Harry and Meghan gave U.S TV host Oprah Winfrey, Duncan Larcombe says there has been a 'sea change' from both William and Kate.

He also claims the death of Prince Philip has sparked a slight change in their roles and conduct as the couple "allow more of their personal side to come across".

The change could 'mark the start of a new era for Kate', with Duncan adding: "Kate is really coming into her own."

Duncan claims the public are ready to "adore" Kate in a similar way they did Princess Diana (Getty Images)

He added: "The last year has given her confidence and proved she is a strong, reliable figure able to take on engagements on her own", reports OK.

Duncan claims the public are ready to "adore" Kate in a similar way they did Princess Diana.

He added: "Kate is now finally starting to fill the shoes she's been wearing for a decade."

Kate recently marked 10 years since marrying William and becoming a senior member of the royal family (PA)

Kate and William have taken on a number of public engagements to see how communities have coped during the pandemic and raise awareness around mental health (REUTERS)

Kate Middleton recently left copies of her new book with hidden letters across the UK to celebrate its launch.

The Duchess of Cambridge said on Twitter on Friday that she had placed 'Hold Still' at secret sites all over the nation.

The book - which sells for around £20 - has already raced to the top of the Amazon 'Best Sellers' charts.

A video accompanying her tweet showed Kate, 39, placing a copy of the title in the grounds of Kensington Palace.

Posting on her official account, she said: "Let the search begin!

"We’ve joined @the_bookfairies for the day to share copies of Hold Still around the UK with you.

"Each copy is adorned with a gold book fairy sticker, gold ribbon, and has a letter from The Duchess tucked inside."

A second tweet added: "To make this activity even more special, book fairies, the Hold Still judges and participants of the final 100 images are leaving copies at places that gave them hope during the lockdown."

"This special book documenting the unique collection of photographs goes on sale today!"

Kate seen later on Friday visiting the The Royal London Hospital and the National Portrait Gallery in a surprise public appearance.

Her book - full title 'Hold Still: A Portrait of Our Nation in 2020' - documents the UK during the pandemic.