The British royal family finds itself in a vulnerable position as King Charles and Princess Kate, both battling cancer, have stepped back from their public duties. Their absence from royal engagements has placed other working royals under increased scrutiny and has raised questions about the monarchy's future.
Ailsa Anderson, a former spokeswoman for the late Queen Elizabeth, expressed concerns about the monarchy's current state, telling People, "[The royal family] is vulnerable at the moment."
The news of Princess Kate's cancer diagnosis has come shortly after King Charles revealed his own health struggles in early February. This simultaneous health crisis involving two of the monarchy's most senior working members has arguably plunged the institution into one of its most challenging periods in recent history.
In light of these health challenges, Prince William has scaled back his royal duties to offer support to his wife and children. A palace spokesperson commented on Princess Kate's condition, stating, "The Princess will return to official duties when she is cleared to do so by her medical team. She is in good spirits and is focused on making a full recovery."
Amid these developments, there is growing speculation about potential revelations that could further shake the royal family. Calls have emerged for Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, daughters of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, to step up and support the monarchy. This comes as Queen Camilla shoulders an increasingly heavy burden during this trying time for the royal family.
