The British royal family finds itself grappling with intensifying scrutiny and public criticism as it confronts a string of challenges ranging from financial controversies to serious health concerns among its senior members. Prince William and Princess Kate, bearing the weight of public expectations, are at the center of this whirlwind, facing mounting pressures to present a strong front for the monarchy amid tumultuous times.
On November 6, while in Cape Town, South Africa, to present his Earthshot Prize awards, Prince William shared a rare moment of optimism, offering an update on his wife's health. "She's doing really well," he said, referring to Princess Kate's ongoing recovery from a cancer battle that defined much of 2024. "She's been amazing this whole year." Behind palace doors, however, the challenges facing the couple extend far beyond personal health.
A joint investigation by the U.K.'s Channel Four and The Sunday Times released on November 2 cast a harsh light on the financial dealings of the royal estates controlled by King Charles and Prince William. The probe, focusing on the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duchy of Cornwall, raised questions about the vast fortunes generated by these estates and their links to taxpayer funds. As the report surfaced, it triggered "panic" among palace aides, according to insiders, and put William's $1 billion fortune under a microscope.
British politician Margaret Hodge highlighted concerns in The King, The Prince & Their Secret Millions, a documentary exploring the financial entanglements. "In the court of public opinion, you always have to be cleaner than clean," Hodge stated, pointing to the perception that the royal estates benefit from taxpayer money through lucrative land leases. While Charles and William claim to pay taxes voluntarily, they have reportedly declined to disclose specific amounts.
Adding to the controversy, the estates have been accused of neglecting environmental issues. Some tenants have raised concerns about substandard living conditions, including mold-infested homes, while others protested against new construction developments overseen by the Duchy of Cornwall that reportedly led to a cliff collapse in Cornwall. Environmental author Guy Shrubsole expressed skepticism about the royals' environmental commitments, saying, "Charles and William often talk a good talk when it comes to the environment, but it's important to look at what is actually going on on their extensive landholdings."
William's office responded, emphasizing his commitment to transforming the duchy. "Prince William became Duke of Cornwall in September 2022 and since then has committed to an expansive transformation of the duchy," the statement read, noting efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2032 and initiatives to support tenants' mental health and combat homelessness.
Meanwhile, the monarchy faces additional stress as King Charles, 76, and Queen Camilla battle separate health issues. Royal author Robert Hardman noted the immense burden on William in his book Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story. "He has lost his mother, he's effectively lost his brother, his wife's got cancer, his father's got cancer, and he's trying to keep the show on the road," a friend of the prince reportedly told Hardman.
The pressures are further complicated by Prince Harry's strained relationship with the royal family. Despite recent reports suggesting he may be seeking reconciliation, Harry has faced criticism for maintaining distance during critical family crises. Speaking on GB News, royal biographer Angela Levin lambasted Harry, saying, "William has had all of this, two loving family members with cancer, and I think that Harry should be, as his brother, ashamed of himself."
Public sentiment around the monarchy remains volatile, with anti-monarchy protests erupting during recent royal tours. King Charles was heckled in Australia and Samoa, while Queen Camilla was seen in tears during what experts believe may have been the couple's final state visit due to the king's condition.
As they grapple with these challenges, Kate and William have had to shoulder increasing responsibilities. "Kate was just trying to concentrate on getting back on her feet as she eases back into her public duties after her own cancer battle," a source close to the family said. "But they really have no choice - as the next king and queen, it's their unique burden to shoulder."
