The New York Post noted that Princess Kate Middleton has maintained a relatively low public profile since undergoing abdominal surgery earlier this year.

What's more, one prominent watcher of the royal family says Middleton is being "abandoned" by her husband. 

Middleton "tarred" last week over edited photo

In an article published by the Post this past weekend, Daniela Elser wrote that the Princess of Wales "has this week been tarred, feathered, put on the rack and paraded about for some rotten fruit throwing."

Meanwhile, Elser alleged that Prince William and other "men of the royal family are closely inspecting their fingernails in another room."

At issue is a photograph showing Middleton and her children which she edited before releasing to the public, a move which resulted in controversy.

That led the princess to issue an apology on social media, writing, "Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing."

"Where the heck was her supposed faithful partner?"

"I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day," she added.

Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C

— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 11, 2024

However, Elser pointed out that it was actually the prince who took the picture before adding, "Where the heck was her supposed faithful partner?"

"Where was the man who had promised to love and honor and occasionally let her be the big boss all those years ago in front of a slightly bored-looking archbishop of Canterbury?" the columnist demanded.

Model and Prince William both deny having an affair

The photo controversy came even as British model Rose Hanbury denied allegations made by "The Late Show" host Stephen Colbert last week that she and Prince William are having an affair.

"The kingdom has been all aflutter by the seeming disappearance of Kate Middleton. Well now, internet sleuths are guessing that Kate’s absence may be related to her husband and the future king of England, William, having an affair," the Post quoted Colbert as saying.

"So, I think we all know who the alleged other woman is. Say it with me –– the Marchioness of Cholmondeley –– what a beautiful name!" he continued, referring to Hanbury's official title.

An attorney for Prince William also denied any impropriety, telling the Daily Beast that such rumors are "false and highly damaging."