A Tough Year for King Charles

King Charles’ second year as monarch didn’t unfold as expected. Cancer treatments forced him to cancel many royal engagements. Even now, he continues to battle the disease.

Kate Middleton’s Parallel Struggles

At the same time, Kate Middleton faced her own health challenges. Yet, their relationship reportedly grew stronger. Some sources claim Charles sees Kate as the “daughter he never had.”

Why Charles Won’t Guide Kate to Queenship

Although Kate is set to one day take over from Camilla as queen, Charles won’t offer her advice about the role. He has shared guidance with her in the past, but not about becoming queen. The reason? It’s deeply personal—and painful.

A Bond Strengthened by Adversity

Their relationship was close from the start. When Kate joined the royal family, then-Prince Charles was quickly taken with her. Over time, their affection deepened.

After both received cancer diagnoses, they became even closer. Royal expert Victoria Arbiter noted their shared experiences likely brought them comfort and support. Diagnosed weeks apart, both Charles and Kate stepped back from royal life to focus on healing.

A Shared Journey Through Illness

On The Royal Beat, Arbiter explained they likely found strength in one another during treatment. Biographer Sally Bedell Smith agreed, calling their bond stronger than ever.

“She is like the daughter he never had,” Smith said, adding that Charles and William both feel protective of her. “They are in this together—Kate and the King.”

A Touching Statement from the Palace

After Kate revealed her diagnosis in March 2024, the Palace shared a heartfelt message. Charles praised her courage and expressed his pride. He also emphasized he had remained “in the closest contact” with her throughout the ordeal.

That phrase—“closest contact”—wasn’t lost on royal watchers.

An Emotional Lunch at Windsor

Royal expert Jennie Bond noted that Charles and Kate shared lunch at Windsor Castle just before she released her video. The moment moved Charles deeply.

“It’s very touching to think of Charles toddling down the corridor to see Kate,” Bond said. “Few people can truly understand what senior royals go through. Their shared illness gave them someone to confide in.”

A Deeply Affectionate Relationship

Bond added that Kate isn’t seeking a father figure—but she and Charles have a strong, genuine bond. “He always wanted a daughter,” she said, reminding us how much he cherishes his grandchildren.

Despite their illnesses, both Charles and Kate try to shield the children from worry. Charles continues to be the fun, devoted grandfather they adore.

Charles’ Private Emotions

Though Charles doesn’t always show his feelings, insiders say he cried after seeing the public’s support following his diagnosis. According to The Sun, the Windsor lunch was rare—and emotional.

“They had a lot to discuss,” one source said. “Charles thinks of Catherine as his daughter.”

Kate Declared Cancer-Free

Months have passed since that lunch. Kate recently shared that she is cancer-free. Charles, however, is still undergoing treatment. Though he paused it briefly for a royal tour, reports suggest he’ll continue treatment in 2025.

Why Charles Stays Silent About the Future

Some critics have speculated that Charles should step aside. But that seems unlikely. After waiting a lifetime to become king, Charles intends to reign for years.

Naturally, one might expect him to prepare Kate for her future role as Queen. But royal broadcaster Helena Chard says that won’t happen.

Charles Has Faith in Kate—But Won’t Intervene

Charles deeply admires Kate. He appreciates her empathy, resilience, and ability to bridge the gap between him and William. Still, he won’t advise her on becoming queen.

Author Christopher Andersen explains why. “Giving her advice would imply he won’t be around much longer,” he said. “And Charles isn’t ready to entertain that idea.”

Though he honored Kate as a Royal Companion of Honour, Charles believes she’s more than capable of rising to the occasion on her own.

A Distant Relationship With Camilla

Camilla, meanwhile, doesn’t plan to coach Kate either. Reports suggest the two women share a “grudging respect,” but not closeness.

Still, Chard believes Charles is fully confident in Kate’s future. “She puts family first,” she said. “He knows she’ll transition beautifully into her role as queen.”

Kate Plans a Gentle Return to Public Life

Although Kate is now cancer-free, a full return to royal duties isn’t imminent. According to Daily Mail’s Rebecca English, sources say the recent trauma gave Kate a new outlook on life.

There won’t be a dramatic return in 2025. Instead, expect a gradual increase in public appearances as she balances health, recovery, and motherhood.

Family Comes First

Sources emphasize that both Kate and William remain focused on their children. They’re seeking ways to balance family life with royal responsibilities.

Kate currently has no plans for major foreign tours. However, she might join William on a short trip—if she feels ready.

What do you think? Will Kate Middleton make a great queen?
Share this article with friends and family—and let us know your thoughts!