Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Prince and Princess of Wales, have spent a challenging year marked by personal struggles and increasing responsibilities as senior members of the British royal family. With Kate recovering from a cancer diagnosis and King Charles undergoing treatment for his own health issues, the couple has taken significant steps toward preparing for their eventual roles as King and Queen of England.
The year has been described as "brutal" by Prince William, as the family navigated Kate's health battle, which kept her largely out of the public eye. After undergoing chemotherapy, Kate is now cancer-free and gradually resuming her royal duties. "No one could have expected what this year has brought for the Prince and Princess of Wales," a family friend said, as reported by Page Six, noting that the couple has prioritized spending time with their three children-Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis-at their Norfolk estate, Anmer Hall, over the holidays.
"This has been the hardest year of his life," William told British media, reflecting on the challenges faced by his wife and father. His candid remarks revealed the emotional toll of balancing personal trials with public obligations. "Honestly, it's been dreadful. It's probably been the hardest year in my life," he said.
Kate, who announced her diagnosis in March through a bare-faced video, has since made limited public appearances, including her emotional hosting of the annual "Together at Christmas" carol service at Westminster Abbey. Her resilience has drawn admiration, with one guest noting, "You wouldn't know to look at her what she had been through."
Royal historian Hugo Vickers commended Kate's readiness to assume greater responsibilities, emphasizing her dedication to family and her role as a senior royal. "Her health comes first, that point has been made very effectively-and, of course, her children," Vickers said, adding, "Catherine is as ready as she will ever be to be queen."
Meanwhile, King Charles, 76, continues to receive treatment for cancer, which he briefly paused during a grueling nine-day tour of Australia and Samoa with Queen Camilla in October. While his health is reportedly improving, a royal insider noted, "He looks quite knackered up close and red around the eyes and thinner... but I suppose it's only to be expected after 10 months of cancer treatment." Charles remains committed to his royal duties and plans a full schedule of public engagements in 2025, including international visits.
The strain on William has been immense, particularly as he takes on more statesman-like responsibilities. His visit to Paris for the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, where he met with President-elect Donald Trump, showcased his growing role. Trump described their conversation as "sad," noting William's love for his wife and father amidst their health struggles.
Succession planning has taken on greater urgency given the health of both King Charles and Kate. "Although the King is carrying out his duties with typical determination, he has had to accept limitations during his cancer treatment," royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith said. Plans for the eventual transition are regularly updated to ensure continuity, with William and Kate stepping into larger roles sooner than anticipated.
In subtle but significant ways, Kate has signaled her preparedness for her future role. She has been seen wearing jewelry that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II, including a four-strand pearl choker and diamond and pearl drop earrings gifted to the late Queen in 1947. "We're starting to see the nods to the family line," Vickers noted. "It's a dynasty moment and shows she's conscious at some point of really stepping into the most senior role of queen."
The family's openness during this tumultuous year has resonated with the public. From Kate's unguarded announcements to their casual family Christmas card, the couple has offered a more relatable image of royal life. "There has been a real change this year from Wiliam and Kate," a royal insider said. "Their openness is fresh, they leaned into that, and I do think it's really resonated with people."
