Prince William and Kate Middleton may ascend to the throne sooner than expected as King Charles battles can:cer. Royal biographer Sally Bedell told *People*, “Although the King is carrying out his duties with typical determination, he has had to accept limitations during his can:cer treatment.”
With Charles facing health challenges, William is taking on more responsibilities. A source revealed, “There’s a sense of calm before the storm” for the Prince and Princess of Wales. William recently represented the King at the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, a sign that he is prepared for the role.

This year has been difficult for William, as both his wife and father have been diagnosed with can:cer. In March, Kate announced her diagnosis and temporarily stepped away from royal duties. By September, Kate shared that her chemotherapy had been completed, describing the experience as “complex, scary, and unpredictable.” She has since resumed her royal responsibilities. The Princess recently hosted a Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, marking her gradual return to public life.