The last time the world saw Kate Middleton? On December 25, 2023, when she attended Christmas Day church service with her family. Weeks later, there was a surprise—and unsettling—announcement from Kensington Palace: the Princess of Wales had undergone abdominal surgery.
We now know why: she confirmed in an emotional video in late March that she was grappling with the early stages of a cancer diagnosis. As a result, she would be taking time away from public life. “We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space, and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now, I must focus on making a full recovery,” she said.
In the weeks that followed, Prince William told reporters that his wife was “doing well” during an appearance in mid-May. Later that month, People reported the princess had been spotted out and about with her family, as well as running solo errands. This coincided with an article in Vanity Fair about her wellbeing: “It has been a great relief that she is tolerating the medication and is actually doing a lot better,” a family friend told the outlet. “It has, of course, been a very challenging and worrying time. Everyone has rallied around her—William, her parents, and her sister and brother.”
But while it seems that the princess is thankfully recovering, the Palace has not set a firm date for her return to royal duties, only confirming that she will not attend the dress rehearsal for Trooping the Colour on June 8. (Traditionally, she serves as an inspecting officer.) They have not yet commented on whether she will attend Trooping the Colour on June 15, but it’s said she will only step back into the spotlight when her medical team gives the all-clear.
Rumors are already swirling about when that might be, with some tabloids saying the fall.
She also may not be the only royal family member out of the spotlight for a time: due to the coming UK election on July 4, Prince William and Prince Charles have canceled official engagements so as to not distract the public from the political process.