In an eventful year since King Charles III ascended to the British throne in September 2022, succeeding his late mother Queen Elizabeth II, the monarch has taken on the heavy responsibilities and duties of sovereignty. His official coronation took place eight months later at Westminster Abbey, where both of his sons Prince William and Prince Harry, along with other relatives, attended. Charles’ wife, Queen Camilla, was also blessed and anointed as queen during the ceremony, marking the beginning of a new era for the Royal Family.
As the first anniversary of Charles’ crowning ceremony approaches, major events in the lives of the royals have unfolded throughout the year. In May 2023, Harry returned home to California following the coronation and later took a trip to New York City with Meghan Markle and her mother for an awards ceremony, which was followed by a near-catastrophic car chase. Trooping the Colour in June honored Charles for the first time, and the prince celebrated his actual birthday in November with a video message from Harry and Meghan. December saw Harry achieve a legal victory in a lawsuit and the traditional Christmas morning church service with William and Kate’s children.
In January 2024, Buckingham Palace announced that Charles underwent a prostate procedure, while Kate underwent abdominal surgery and canceled her public duties for recovery. In February, Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer, prompting Harry to visit his father to spend time with him. Public concern for Kate also rose as news of her diagnosis spread, and she shared a family photo on Mother’s Day, leading to speculation about its authenticity. William continued his appearances solo, including at the BAFTAs where he apologized for Kate’s absence.
March 2024 brought further updates on Kate’s health as she announced she would undergo chemotherapy for an unspecified form of cancer. Despite her treatment, William and Harry continued their royal duties, with William supporting the Diana Legacy Awards alongside his estranged brother. Kate expressed gratitude for the support she has received during this challenging time. In April, both Charles and Kate celebrated their wedding anniversaries and Louis’ birthday, with Charles making his first public appearance post-health scare. Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan focused on their business ventures in the entertainment industry.
As Charles and Kate continued their treatments in May 2024, other members of the Royal Family stepped in to fulfill their duties on their behalf. Camilla, William, Anne, Edward, and his wife Sophie took on more responsibilities, with Sophie becoming the first working royal to visit Ukraine since the unrest. With the young royals celebrating milestones like Charlotte’s 9th birthday, the royal family continues to navigate through challenges and changes, with Charles leading the way as the reigning monarch during these trying times.