Kensington Palace has recently disclosed that Princess Kate will not be participating in the traditional rehearsal for the upcoming Trooping the Colour event, which celebrates King Charles’ birthday. This announcement has sparked considerable interest and speculation among royal watchers and the public alike.
The palace confirmed that Lieutenant General James Bucknall will step in as the Inspecting Officer for the Colonel’s Review on June 8. This role was initially intended for Princess Kate, who serves as the Colonel in Chief of the Irish Guards. However, due to her ongoing cancer treatment, she will not be able to fulfill this duty.
Princess Kate has been notably absent from public engagements since she began chemotherapy earlier this year. Her absence from the rehearsal has led to questions about whether she will attend the main Trooping the Colour event on June 15. While the palace has not confirmed her attendance, there remains a possibility that she might make an appearance, depending on her health.
The British Army has also made adjustments to accommodate King Charles’ health. In a significant departure from tradition, the King will travel by carriage instead of horseback during the military parade. This change underscores the ongoing health challenges faced by the royal family.
Royal experts and fans are keenly observing the situation, particularly regarding the attendance of Prince William and their children. Royal correspondent Cameron Walker and digital Royal editor Svar Nanan-Sen have speculated on the likelihood of the royal children appearing on the balcony during the event. They believe that seeing the young royals would be a comforting sight for the British public, especially given the family’s recent hardships.
Despite her absence from the rehearsal, there is still hope that Princess Kate might attend the main event. Royal expert Gareth Russell has noted that her plans could change at any moment, depending on her health. Last year, she attended the ceremony with her family, wearing a striking green coat dress by designer Andrew GN, which was seen as a nod to her role with the Irish Guards.
In recent weeks, there have been reports of Princess Kate being seen out and about, running errands alone and with her family. Royal reporter Katie Nicholl has mentioned that the princess has “turned a corner” in her treatment, which has fueled speculation about her potential return to public duties.
Kensington Palace has emphasized that Princess Kate’s return to work will depend on clearance from her medical team. Her focus remains on her recovery and protecting her three children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, during this challenging time. In a video statement shared on Instagram, she reassured the public that she “will be OK” and asked for continued privacy as she battles cancer.
The form of cancer Princess Kate is fighting has not been disclosed publicly. She was diagnosed after undergoing serious abdominal surgery earlier this year. The last official update on her condition came from Prince William, who mentioned during a royal visit in April that his wife and their children are “doing well.”
As the Trooping the Colour event approaches, the royal family faces significant decisions. King Charles has been urged to carefully consider his approach to the event, especially given the current health crises within the family. Royal editor Hannah Furness has highlighted the importance of the “balcony moment” during the event, which will visually represent the state of the royal family.
Last year, King Charles showcased his vision of a slimmed-down monarchy by limiting the balcony appearance to working royals. This year, the decision on who will appear on the balcony is particularly crucial, given the ongoing health battles of both the King and Princess Kate, as well as the departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from royal duties.
In a recent video produced by Princess Kate and Prince William, the couple shared their ongoing work with the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood. This video sparked discussions about whether Princess Kate is preparing to return to her public-facing royal duties. However, Kensington Palace has clarified that she will not return to work until her medical team gives the all-clear.
As the royal family navigates these challenging times, the public remains hopeful for Princess Kate’s recovery and potential return to her royal duties. The upcoming Trooping the Colour event will undoubtedly be a significant moment for the royal family and their supporters.
