Prince William Reflects on His 'Hardest Year' Amid Cancer Diagnoses in the Royal Family

Prince William recently described 2024 as the "hardest year" of his life. Speaking to media at the conclusion of his trip to South Africa, the Prince of Wales opened up about coping with the cancer diagnoses of both his father, King Charles III, and his wife, Catherine, the Princess of Wales.

“It’s been dreadful. It’s probably been the hardest year in my life. So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult,” he shared, when asked about how he’s managed this year following a difficult period for the Royal Family.

In February 2024, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III had begun treatment for cancer. Six weeks later, it was revealed that Princess Catherine was also undergoing chemotherapy after her own diagnosis.

Since then, Catherine has completed her chemotherapy treatment, and King Charles has resumed his official duties.

Reflecting on their strength, Prince William said, “I’m so proud of my wife, I’m proud of my father, for handling the things that they have done. But from a personal family point of view, it’s been brutal.”