Rumors have begun to circulate on social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, claiming that Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, may not return to her royal duties for "many years," despite earlier reports suggesting a comeback within the next few months. The unsubstantiated claims, which originated from an X user on May 6, 2024, also allege that some of Kate's close friends have admitted to losing contact with her during her absence.
The X user's post, which has since been shared and adapted across various social media platforms, read: "BREAKING!! Despite numerous reports of Kate returning to royal duties within the next few months, sources close to her say that her come back could take 'many years'. Close friends of Kate admit they have 'lost contact' with her. #WhereIsKate #WhereIsKateMiddleton #KateMiddleton"
However, a thorough investigation by Snopes has found no evidence to support these claims, leading the fact-checking website to rate the rumors as "Unfounded." Snopes searched the Royal Family's website and conducted extensive Google searches but found no announcements or statements from the Royal Family or reputable news outlets corroborating the claims made by the X user.
The lack of substantiation from credible sources has raised doubts about the veracity of the rumors, especially given the potential newsworthiness of such revelations, if true. Snopes has reached out to both the X user and Buckingham Palace for comment on the matter but has yet to receive a response.
On January 17, 2024, Buckingham Palace announced that the Princess of Wales had been admitted to a hospital the previous day for planned abdominal surgery and was "unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter." However, on March 22, Kensington Palace released a video of Kate announcing that she was undergoing treatment for cancer.
Following the release of the footage, several British media outlets, including Sky News, ITV, and The Independent, reported a statement from Kensington Palace, which read: "The princess will return to official duties when she is cleared to do so by her medical team. She is in good spirits and is focused on making a full recovery."
Media outlets have also inquired with Buckingham Palace about whether this statement remains the most recent update on Kate's health and is awaiting a response.
The unsubstantiated rumors surrounding Kate Middleton's prolonged absence from royal duties come on the heels of similar speculations about King Charles III's health in March and May. Social media users spread rumors claiming that the British monarch had been given two years to live and that his funeral plans had been updated due to his being "very unwell."
