Health struggles, scandals, and family feuds defined one of the toughest years for the monarchy.
The British royal family is ready to turn the page on 2024, a year riddled with personal challenges and public controversies. Described by the Prince of Wales as "brutal" and "the hardest year" of his life, the royal household faced a barrage of crises that tested their resilience.
Health concerns dominated much of the year. In January, Princess Catherine underwent abdominal surgery, and King Charles underwent a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate. By February, the monarch, 76, was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer. Adding to the family's hardships, Catherine revealed her own cancer diagnosis in March, later announcing in September that she had completed chemotherapy. Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, also battled skin and breast cancer.
Other health woes included Princess Anne suffering a concussion and memory loss after a horse-related accident in June, while Queen Camilla, 77, ended the year battling a chest infection, prompting her to reduce her duties.
Public scandals further compounded the family’s troubles. Prince Andrew faced allegations of ties to a Chinese businessman accused of influencing British elites, which led to the businessman being barred from the UK. Andrew’s residence at Royal Lodge also came under scrutiny due to cost-cutting measures, though he managed to remain at the property gifted by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Meanwhile, Harry garnered headlines over legal issues tied to his U.S. visa, following revelations in his memoir Spare.
As 2024 closes, the royal family hopes for a more stable and positive 2025, leaving behind a year of unprecedented challenges and controversies.
