A Buckingham Palace insider has shared a concerning update on King Charles’ health, revealing that the monarch is “seriously unwell” as he continues his battle with cancer.
King Charles ascended to the throne in September 2022 at the age of 73, becoming the oldest person ever to take the British crown. His cancer diagnosis was made public early last year, though the Palace has chosen not to specify the type of cancer he is facing — a decision the King reportedly made himself.
“The King’s decision not to reveal the type of cancer was a conscious choice,” a royal source told The Times in 2024. “He wanted to reach out to the widest number of people experiencing the disease, rather than narrow the focus to a particular form of cancer.”
In recent months, the monarch has spoken openly about his condition, assuring the public he was doing “not too bad” during a royal engagement. However, new reports suggest that his health has taken a worrying turn.
According to journalist Rob Shuter, a Palace insider said the King is “seriously unwell but determined to carry on.” The source added: “He’s exhausted, but he won’t stop. Every morning he insists on reading his red boxes. He believes his service to the country is his calling — and he’ll keep going as long as he can.”
Despite growing concern, the King reportedly remains steadfast in his commitment to fulfilling his royal duties for as long as his health allows. Meanwhile, Prince William has been “quietly preparing to step up fast,” the insider added, as “the illusion of perfect health is collapsing.”
The Prince of Wales has gradually taken on a more prominent role within the monarchy, balancing his father’s workload and representing the Crown at key engagements.
Still, William has reassured the public that his father’s treatment is moving in the right direction. In a recent interview with Eugene Levy for Apple TV, he shared an encouraging update: “Everything is progressing in the right way, which is all good news.”
As the King continues his private fight, royal watchers say the coming months will be critical in determining how the monarchy adapts — and how soon the next generation may be called to take on a greater role.
