Royal watchers hoping for Princess Kate’s speedy return to public life may be in for a disappointment. According to sources close to the royal family, Kate Middleton is unlikely to make any public appearances for the remainder of 2024 due to her ongoing battle with cancer. The Daily Beast reported that the Princess of Wales will likely be absent from public engagements as she undergoes cancer treatment.
"There is nothing planned" for the remainder of 2024 on the Princess of Wales's schedule, an insider told the Daily Beast. "She may not appear in public for the rest of the year."
Kate Middleton is reportedly surrounded by her family as she receives chemotherapy following her cancer diagnosis earlier this year. She is expected to spend the upcoming school break with her family at their Sandringham Estate residence, with her parents likely to visit her, the source said.
At the school attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales's children, parents have noticed Kate’s absence from recent events. This extended absence from the royal spotlight contrasts with King Charles III, who has continued working while receiving cancer treatment himself. This has further fueled online speculation, with #WhereIsKateMiddleton trending on social media.
A Kensington Palace insider acknowledged the potential for increased conspiracy theories surrounding Kate's absence. "We would not rule out another video message updating the country on her health. That proved to be a very effective way of keeping the conspiracy theorists at bay," the insider said.
Prince William has assured well-wishers of his wife's well-being during recent engagements. A Kensington Palace spokesperson previously stated that the Princess' return to public duties hinges on clearance from her medical team.
In March, there was hope from royal fans that Kate would be back in the public eye after reports suggested she was working from home in her role with the Centre for Early Childhood. But her cancer diagnosis and treatment announcement dashed those hopes.
