This year, the royal family’s Easter traditions will not include Kate Middleton, who has been diagnosed with cancer after undergoing abdominal surgery. King Charles III, who was also recently diagnosed with cancer, is expected to make an appearance at Sunday’s church service after being away from public engagements due to health issues. While Kate will not be attending the service, it is reported that she, Prince William, and their children will spend Easter at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
Traditionally, the royal family gathers at Windsor Castle on Easter Sunday and walks to St. George’s Chapel for a church service, with crowds gathering to greet them. Buckingham Palace confirmed that Charles will attend the service alongside Queen Camilla and other senior royals, marking his highest-profile appearance since his cancer diagnosis. Charles was unable to attend the Maundy Thursday service at Worcester Cathedral this week, which is typically a regular Easter weekend appearance for the monarch.
It is still unknown when Kate will return to public duties, as she is currently undergoing preventative chemotherapy and is focusing on her family’s privacy. Speculation grew about a possible Easter return for Kate prior to her diagnosis, with reports suggesting she may walk with the royal family to church. Some have also speculated that William and Kate could potentially make a public appearance on their son Louis’ sixth birthday on April 23, as Kate has traditionally shared pictures of her children for their birthdays.
Both Charles and Kate have announced cancer diagnoses this year, though the specific type and stage of cancer have not been disclosed by the royal family. Kate’s absence from public life following her diagnosis sparked speculation, with her last public appearance being in December and blurry paparazzi pictures circulating in March. The U.K.’s privacy watchdog is investigating a reported breach of Kate’s medical records, with at least one staff member attempting to access her health information. Kate’s announcement of her cancer diagnosis on March 22 garnered messages of support from world leaders and the royal family.
