The Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia

Broadcast Pioneers member Jay Lloyd and daughter Kathryn
St. Andrews University
June 21, 2007

In the fall of 2003, I first met Gerry Wilkinson, and my daughter met a future king. Life takes strange turns. Gerry and I met at PHL airport waiting for a flight to the U.K. and college. Gerry’s to Sussex, mine to 4 years at St. Andrews. Prince William, who thankfully wedded last week, was going into his 3rd year at the venerable Scottish seat of learning. My daughter Kathryn, her first. Kate Middleton was not, to common knowledge or the knowledge of commoners, in the picture. I gave little thought to the impact on my wallet from a chance meeting between Kathryn and royalty.

But then the outgoing message on Kathryn’s phone said, “Out chasing the Prince. Leave a message.” Dark thoughts occurred. Then the two did cross paths in a “social setting.” That’s St. Andrews speak for a pub. And that’s when I called to have a heart-to-heart, father-and-daughter chat.

I began straight up. “Honey, about the prince. I do not mind if you become friends. But I honestly do not want any romantic relationship.”

To her credit, she remained calm. “I don’t think I’m interested, Dad, but why?”

I had to explain, “Just remember, the father of the bride has to pay for the wedding. And on my AFTRA pension, I am not about to bankroll a royal wedding.”

Good kid that she is, she listened.

Last week I rested easy. It was Mr. Middleton’s problem. Not mine.

The e-mail address of the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia is pioneers@broadcastpioneers.com