As King Charles III continues cancer treatment while carrying out a reduced schedule of public duties, preparations for the monarchy's next chapter are beginning to take shape behind palace walls. At the center of those early discussions, according to people familiar with the matter, is Catherine, Princess of Wales, who has returned to public life after a year of illness and is now taking a more active role in planning for the eventual accession of Prince William.
The Princess of Wales, 44, who has spoken of a "brutal" year and described herself as "cancer-free," is said to be helping coordinate early logistical thinking around William's coronation. While no timetable has been set and Charles remains on the throne, the planning reflects a pragmatic recognition that transitions of this scale require years of preparation.
Those involved describe the effort as quiet and deliberate rather than ceremonial, with Kate acting as a trusted intermediary between the King and the Prince of Wales. Her influence, they say, reflects both her standing within the family and a broader desire to project continuity at a time when the institution faces public scrutiny and economic pressure.
For Prince William, coronation planning is closely tied to a broader reformist outlook he has articulated publicly. In a conversation with actor Eugene Levy for The Reluctant Traveler, William said, "I think it's safe to say that change is on my agenda. Change for good." That sentiment is informing discussions around a ceremony intended to balance tradition with restraint.
According to people briefed on the thinking, the service at Westminster Abbey would retain core religious elements while shedding features seen as costly or out of step with public mood. King Charles's 2023 coronation carried an estimated price tag of about $90 million; planners are examining options that could reduce costs dramatically, potentially to a fraction of that amount.
Among the elements likely to be dropped is the so-called "homage of the people," which invited public pledges of allegiance. A source close to the Prince of Wales said, "There's no way he will go down that route," signaling a preference for a ceremony that is "unifying" and "majestic" without appearing "showy."
The guest list is also expected to underscore generational continuity. Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis would be given visible roles, reinforcing a clear line of succession. Senior working royals, including Princess Anne and Prince Edward, are expected to feature prominently.
By contrast, individuals whose presence could distract from the event are likely to be excluded. People familiar with the discussions say Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson are unlikely to be invited. The status of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remains unresolved and would depend on the state of Prince William's relationship with his brother at the time.
