Since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, King Charles III has prioritized his royal duties, even while facing a battle with cancer. The royal family has had to adapt to these changes. As King Charles III marks his second Accession Day, a special anniversary commemorating his succession, the family is focused on restoring long-term confidence in the monarchy. The death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022, significantly altered the atmosphere of the royal family in the U.K.
Despite challenges, following their late matriarch’s example, senior royals continued their duties without officially addressing the criticisms, many from within the family. However, in January, normal operations paused when Kensington Palace announced that Kate Middleton would be out of the public eye recovering from abdominal surgery until after Easter on March 31. Shortly after, Buckingham Palace revealed that Charles was being treated for an enlarged prostate. On February 5, six days after being discharged, Charles was diagnosed with cancer and would step back from public-facing duties for treatment. The year was already filled with significant moments for the monarchy.
Seven weeks later, during which the palace denied rumors originating in Russia that Charles had died, Kate disclosed in a March 22 video message that she was undergoing preventive chemotherapy following a post-operative cancer diagnosis. Charles praised her bravery, expressing pride in her sincerity. He maintained close contact with Kate, providing support with Queen Camilla during this tough period, all while managing his own health challenges.
Peter Phillips, Charles’ nephew, noted that although the king was in “good spirits,” he was likely frustrated by his limited ability to fulfill his duties. Charles, known for his dedication, often pushed his medical team to allow him to resume more tasks. The palace shared no specific timeline for his public return, but it was understood he would continue state business in private. Despite the secrecy surrounding his cancer type and treatment, acknowledging his illness was a relatively open move for the monarch.
William, Camilla, Anne, and Prince Edward continued representing the monarchy in Charles’ and Kate’s absence. William thanked the public for their support for his father and Kate during a speech on February 7. Charles resumed some public duties on February 21, meeting British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and later engaging with other officials. He was gradually seen more in public, with his schedule appearing relatively normal to outsiders. Charles attended Royal Ascot in June and participated fully in Trooping the Colour.
During a visit to the Dyson Cancer Center at the Royal United Hospital in Bath on September 3, Camilla mentioned that Charles was “doing very well.” Charles aimed to visit Australia with Camilla as king and queen, according to Peter Phillips, and local preparations were ongoing.
Camilla attended the Royal Maundy Service on March 28, marking the first time a monarch’s consort had done so in place of the king. Kate Middleton, after completing chemotherapy in September, shared her experience and perspective on resilience and healing. She returned to appearances by June 15. Princess Anne had a brief hospital stay in June for a concussion but was discharged after five days.
The year also saw other developments: Prince William received a new military title, sparking controversy, and Sarah Ferguson was diagnosed with a second type of cancer. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark abdicated in January, and the Luxembourg royal family welcomed a new baby.
The royal family’s extensive activities reflect their ongoing efforts to maintain their roles and public engagement amidst personal challenges.