Charles, who became monarch in September 2022 following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, was 73 at the time, making him the oldest person to ascend the British throne. He had also been the longest-serving heir in history. In February 2024, he announced a diagnosis of an undisclosed form of cancer. Buckingham Palace confirmed in April 2024 that he would resume public-facing duties during treatment, though he was hospitalized in March 2025 due to temporary side effects.
In a rare personal reflection, the king told fellow cancer patients in April: “Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones. But as one among those statistics myself, I can vouch for the fact that it can also be an experience that brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity.”
Prince William Ready to Take the Throne
With his father’s health in mind, Nicholl told OK!: “The crown will never have felt closer to the prince than it does now. His father’s illness has been a stark reminder that it’s his turn next, and it may not be too far in the distant future.”