With King Charles temporarily stepping back from public duties for treatment and Kate’s return to engagements postponed until after Easter, the responsibility falls on remaining royals, particularly William and Queen Camilla, to represent the monarchy publicly.
Royal author Robert Hardman noted that William had already assumed substantial state duties toward the end of Queen Elizabeth’s reign, and the burden of expectation remains high for him.
On Tuesday, King Charles met briefly with son Harry, who had flown in to visit after learning of the cancer diagnosis. Harry, who has been estranged from much of the royal family since stepping down from royal duties, returned to the United States after a short visit.
Despite the diagnosis, King Charles intends to continue his private work and deal with state matters. Buckingham Palace remains optimistic about his recovery and return to public duties.