With Prince William and Kate Middleton subtly ascending to a new level of prominence as they prepare for their eventual reign as king and queen, influenced by unprecedented family difficulties, change is developing in the complex world of the British monarchy . They have experienced a turbulent year filled with major health issues that have sped up the possible succession timeframe. King Charles’ cancer diagnosis and Middleton’s cancer treatment have also put the spotlight on the royal transition, requiring the pair to adjust and get ready sooner than they had planned.
Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith recently provided an update on the shifting dynamics of the royal household. “Although the king is carrying out his duties with typical determination, he has had to accept limitations during his cancer treatment,” she told People . “As a result William has been taking on more responsibilities, and he and Kate have been preparing for their future roles sooner than they would have expected.”
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But Middleton’s road has perhaps been even more profound: since her major abdominal surgery in January and since she went public in March about her cancer, she has been through one tough year. Her latest public appearance was when she showed up at the Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey —marked the most telling display of resilience.
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At the event, Middleton was heard discussing a moving thought with music sensation Paloma Faith during the event: “I didn’t know this year was going to be the year that I’ve just had.” It perfectly expresses her emotions as her life abruptly changed; all of this has also led to William’s growing responsibilities. The prince has been representing the UK on a global stage at various events, the most recent being the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump acknowledged after meeting with the prince last week that Prince William is very concerned about his father and wife’s health.
Talking about the crown, while the traditional path would have William succeeding as king upon Charles’ death, the recent health challenges have brought a certain sense of urgency to their preparation. Succession within the royal family does not just happen but is rather an artfully choreographed affair. Royal protocols ensure that the plans move, as one source called it, on ‘institutional preparedness.’
The pair is attempting to strike a balance between their recovery and their royal responsibilities, prioritizing their family but the palace insiders described it as a ‘sense of calm before the storm’ behind the palace doors. Another source also added that “they are next in line for the biggest job of their lives, and of course, Kate’s health has taken priority, but it’s also allowed everyone to take a step back and figure out what’s important right now,” as per The New York Post .