Concerns about the health of Catherine, Princess of Wales, have intensified following her latest public appearance, as royal watchers and medical experts voice alarm over her visibly frail frame. The 43-year-old royal, who announced her cancer remission earlier this year, appeared significantly thinner during her outing at the Wimbledon women's final, raising speculation about her recovery.
Middleton, who has largely remained out of the public spotlight since her cancer diagnosis in March 2024, returned to the public eye this summer with a small number of engagements. However, palace insiders and observers say her current condition-marked by a drastic weight drop to an estimated 90 pounds-has sparked renewed worry about her health trajectory.
"Kate is painfully thin, and people are worried it's a sign that she is struggling with her recovery from cancer treatment-or worse, she's had a relapse," one palace insider told RadarOnline.com. The source added: "She's gaunt and has little to no muscle tone. Kate always had an athletic figure, but she's far from it now."
Middleton had undergone abdominal surgery before revealing her cancer diagnosis, which was followed by a lengthy course of chemotherapy. While she declared herself in remission in January 2025, insiders told The Blast that her health crisis was far more serious than previously disclosed. "She came dangerously close to not making it through," one source revealed.
Medical experts not involved in her treatment have also expressed concern. Dr. Gabe Mirkin told RadarOnline.com: "Kate is severely underweight at around 90 pounds, 19 months after abdominal surgery, cancer, and chemotherapy. This severe weight loss can be caused by the chemotherapy itself, not eating enough because she doesn't feel very well, or treatment failure for her cancer."
The princess's notable absence from the Royal Ascot in June only fueled speculation. The high-profile event is typically a staple in the royal calendar, but sources say Middleton chose to prioritize her health. "Clearly, Kate needs rest, and she needs nourishment," one source said. "It seems to be a case of too much too soon."
Royal commentator Ingrid Seward echoed the sentiment, stating: "Her priorities have changed, and she's listening to her body instead of being a people pleaser. She's absolutely got to be strict with herself and say, 'No, I can't do this.'"
Despite her physical limitations, Middleton made a brief but significant appearance at Wimbledon last month, joining her daughter Princess Charlotte and sister Pippa Middleton in the royal box. She presented the trophy at the women's final between Iga Swiatek and Amanda Anisimova, where she received a standing ovation.
Her role as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club marked a symbolic return, though some observers noted that her frame appeared even slighter than that of her 10-year-old daughter. Clad in a cream skirt and white blazer, Middleton maintained a composed and elegant appearance, despite clear signs of physical strain.
In addition to Wimbledon, the princess also curated an art exhibit in June at the V&A East Storehouse. Titled "Makers and Creators," the display reflects her longstanding interest in arts and design. According to PEOPLE, the collection includes a 1960 Royal Ballet costume by Oliver Messel and a hand-quilted Welsh bedcover from the 1800s.
