Kensington Palace officials have responded to rumors about Princess Catherine's health with a scathing statement.
Last week it was reported that the 42-year-old Princess of Wales, who is married to Prince William, was in hospital for a couple of days after having abdominal surgery.
Kensington Palace confirmed the news in a statement shared on social media, writing: "Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to The London Clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery."
They said that Catherine canceled her commitments for the foreseeable future, and added that she is not expected to resume her Royal duties until after Easter, depending on medical advice nearer the time.
Catherine, Princess of Wales. Credit: Stephen Pond / Getty
There are no further details on the reasons for the royal's surgery, however, it has been reported that she was not rushed into the hospital and that the procedure was planned for some time.
"The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate," the palace continued. "She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private."
"Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness' progress when there is significant new information to share," they said, adding that she apologizes "to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements".
While the Royal Family has not provided recent updates on Catherine's recovery, Kensington Palace did reveal that she was "making good progress" when she left the hospital on January 29.
Following Catherine's procedure, overseas journalist Concha Calleja claimed on the popular Spanish news program, Fiesta, that the princess was in a coma due to health complications, the Daily Mail reported.
The journalist, 59, said the medical team's "drastic" measures included putting Catherine in an induced coma, explaining: "There were serious complications that they didn't expect because the operation went well, but the post-operative period didn't go so well."
Calleja also alleged that Kate's recovery was "possibly going to require a bit of assistance, and I'm not just referring to her family," claiming that "an entire hospital" was being set up to support her at their Windsor home.
However, the Spaniard's claims - which were presented on the news channel and reported by other Spanish publications - have been vehemently denied by the furious palace, blasting it as "total nonsense".
"No attempt was made by that journalist to fact-check anything that she said with anyone in the household," a Palace source said, per The Mirror. "It’s fundamentally, totally made-up, and I’ll use polite English here: It’s absolutely not the case."
The Times adds that Palace officials were said to be "furious" and "angered" over the incorrect allegations.
King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty
The Palace disclosed in a statement that the 75-year-old monarch had already begun treatment after the cancer was discovered during a recent medical procedure for benign prostate enlargement.
"During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer," the statement read, adding that the King will suspend public engagements but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional role as head of state.
The statement continued that his majesty is "grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure," adding: "He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."
"His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer," they concluded.
Buckingham Palace has not disclosed what kind of cancer the King has, or where he is receiving treatment, sharing: "No further details are being shared at this stage, except to confirm that His Majesty does not have prostate cancer," according to BBC News.
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, is in hospital recovering from abdominal surgery, Kensington Palace has confirmed.
The 42-year-old is expected to remain in hospital for 10-14 days after having the surgery and has cancelled her commitments for the foreseeable future.
Princess Catherine is not expected to resume her Royal duties until after Easter, depending on medical advice nearer the time according to reports.
Kensington Palace confirmed the news in a statement, writing: "Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to The London Clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery."
Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty
The statement continued: "The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery.
"Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."
It added: "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.
"Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness' progress when there is significant new information to share.
"The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements. She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible."
Following her eventual discharge, Kate is then expected to return home to Windsor to continue her recovery at home with Prince William and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
There are no further details on the reasons for Kate's surgery, however it has been reported that she was not rushed into hospital and that the procedure was planned for some time.
Prince William is also expected to postpone a number of engagements and will not undertake official duties while his wife is in hospital. according to the Daily Mail, as well as during the immediate period after her return home.
Royal officials are expected to provide an updated schedule for his commitments in due course, and the couple will not be traveling internationally over the coming months.
Royal expert Phil Dampier tweeted: "Wishing the Princess of Wales a speedy recovery after abdominal surgery. We don't know the details but clearly this was serious as she will be in hospital for a fortnight and needs up to three months to recover."
Queen Elizabeth II's former press secretary Dickie Arbiter added: "I am sure I speak for everyone in wishing HRH a speedy recovery."
The team representing Princess Catherine has addressed the speculation regarding the Princess of Wales' location after her abdominal operation in January.
The statement comes after social media users have not only started questioning the whereabouts of the Royal, but also begun making joking memes about her disappearance from the public eye.
Nevertheless, representatives for the future queen have assured the public that Princess Catherine is well.
Credit: Chris Jackson / Getty
"Kensington Palace clarified in January the expected recovery period for the princess and stated that we would only share important updates," her representative informed Page Six. "We continue to follow that directive."
The spokesperson emphasized that the Princess of Wales, aged 42, is "in good health."
As Princess Catherine progresses in her recovery, Prince William has returned to his public roles. However, he raised eyebrows once more by missing a royal commitment on Tuesday, citing "personal reasons" without further explanation.
Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty
Nonetheless, the palace reassured the public that the princess was once again "in good health" at that time.
The 41-year-old Prince of Wales made an appearance on Thursday at a synagogue in London, where he took part in an event combating antisemitism. "Both Catherine and I are deeply troubled by the increasing antisemitism," he conveyed to the attendees.
Middleton has been out of the public eye since Christmas Day, leading to rampant speculation online, with theories varying from cosmetic procedures to being in a coma.
When her surgery was announced, Kensington Palace stated that the mother of three would be hospitalized for up to two weeks and was not expected to return to her public roles until approximately Easter.
Kensington Palace said in a statement at the time: "Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was admitted to The London Clinic yesterday for planned abdominal surgery."
The statement continued: "The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery.
"Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."
It added: "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.
"Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness' progress when there is significant new information to share.
"The Princess of Wales wishes to apologise to all those concerned for the fact that she has to postpone her upcoming engagements. She looks forward to reinstating as many as possible, as soon as possible."
Despite the timescale provided, this is not the first time officials have spoken out against rampant rumors.
Following Catherine's procedure, overseas journalist Concha Calleja claimed on the popular Spanish news program, Fiesta, that the princess was in a coma due to health complications, the Daily Mail reported.
The journalist, 59, said the medical team's "drastic" measures included putting Catherine in an induced coma, explaining: "There were serious complications that they didn't expect because the operation went well, but the post-operative period didn't go so well."
Calleja also alleged that Kate's recovery was "possibly going to require a bit of assistance, and I'm not just referring to her family," claiming that "an entire hospital" was being set up to support her at their Windsor home.
However, the Spaniard's claims - which were presented on the news channel and reported by other Spanish publications - were swiftly and vehemently denied by the furious palace, blasting it as "total nonsense".
"No attempt was made by that journalist to fact-check anything that she said with anyone in the household," a Palace source said, per The Mirror. "It’s fundamentally, totally made-up, and I’ll use polite English here: It’s absolutely not the case."
The Times added at the time that Palace officials were said to be "furious" and "angered" over the incorrect allegations.
Kensington Palace has announced that Catherine, Princess of Wales, is battling cancer.
The announcement was made on March 22, with the Princess revealing in a video message that she had been diagnosed with cancer following her abdominal surgery in January. Watch her announcement below:
She is now in the early stages of chemotherapy treatment.
Princess Catherine ensured the public that she is feeling "well".
Princess Catherine underwent abdominal surgery back in January. Credit: Stephen Pond/Getty
Princess Catherine's most recent appearance at an official royal engagement was during the traditional Christmas walk at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Norfolk. Accompanied by her husband William and their children Louis, Charlotte, and George, she joined other members of the royal family for the service.
Afterward, the family took time to greet well-wishers gathered outside the church before heading back to Sandringham House to continue their Christmas celebrations.
Concern about Princess Catherine's whereabouts has recently been trending on social media. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty
The following month, it was revealed that the Princess of Wales was set to undergo abdominal surgery. Here is a timeline of what has happened since...
January 17, 2024: Princess Catherine's "Planned Abdominal Surgery" Is Announced
Kensington Palace reveals Princess Catherine's upcoming abdominal surgery, sending shockwaves through the public. The statement assures the surgery's success and clarifies that it is not cancer-related.
"The surgery was successful, and it is expected that she will remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days before returning home to continue her recovery," the palace shares.
January 17, 2024: Prince William Cancels His Royal Appointments
Prince William clears his schedule to be with Princess Catherine during her recovery, showing unwavering support in the wake of her surgery.
January 18, 2024: The Palace Releases Its First Statement Post-Op
Kensington Palace updates the public on Princess Catherine's condition, stating that she is "doing well", marking the first of a few updates from the Royal Family.
The statement continued: "The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery.
"Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."
January 18, 2024: Prince William Visits Kate in the Hospital
Prince William pays a low-key visit to Princess Catherine at the London Clinic.
Prince William, Prince of Wales seen leaving The London Clinic after visiting his wife on January 18, 2024. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty
January 29, 2024: Princess Catherine Heads Home
After nearly two weeks in the hospital, Princess Catherine is discharged, with the palace announcing her return to Windsor for continued recovery.
"The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery. She is making good progress," Kensington Palace noted in a statement.
February 7, 2024: William Mentions Princess Catherine's Recovery
Prince William acknowledges the public's support for Princess Catherine during a speech at a fundraising gala, expressing gratitude for the well-wishes.
February 27, 2024: William Unexpectedly Pulls Out of an Appointment
William unexpectedly cancels an appearance at his godfather's memorial service, sparking speculation about the reason behind his absence.
February 2024: 'Where Is Kate Middleton?' Starts to Trend Online
As public curiosity mounts, Kensington Palace addresses concerns over Princess Catherine's absence, emphasizing her recovery while dismissing unfounded rumors.
Circulating conspiracy theories led to her representative stating: "Kensington Palace clarified in January the expected recovery period for the princess and stated that we would only share important updates. We continue to follow that directive."
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Hires a New Secretary
Amidst swirling rumors, Princess Catherine appoints Lt. Col. Tom White as her private secretary, adding fuel to speculation about the Royal Family's handling of Kate's health.
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Is Seen for the First Time Since Her Surgery With Carole Middleton
Princess Catherine's sighting with her mother, Carole Middleton, prompts further scrutiny, with insiders questioning the palace's handling of Kate's recovery and public appearances.
March 10, 2024: Princess Catherine's Now-Infamous Mother's Day Post
Princess Catherine resurfaces on social media for Mother's Day, but controversy ensues over the heavily edited family photo, leading to retractions by major news agencies and widespread speculation.
The post was accompanied with the caption: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day."
March 11, 2024: Princess Catherine's Photoshop Apology
In response to the photo debacle, Princess Catherine issues an apology, admitting to editing the image.
She told followers of her and Prince William's official Twitter (now X) account: "Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C."
March 12, 2024: What's Going on With This Year's Trooping the Colour?
Reports surface that Princess Catherine's name has been quietly removed from the Trooping the Colour attendee list, raising questions about her recovery timeline. The Ministry of Defense initially listed her as attending the event on June 8 but swiftly removed the claim.
Kensington Palace clarifies that her attendance has not been confirmed.
March 13, 2024: Another Photoshop Controversy
Newspapers publish photos of Princess Catherine and Prince William on their way to a Commonwealth Day service, sparking speculation about image manipulation. Despite concerns, photo agency Goff Photos denies doctoring any images.
March 14, 2024: Royal Update That Kate Is "Smiling" and "Upbeat"
Amid mounting speculation, insiders assure the public that Princess Catherine is in good spirits and has been seen outside the house. A royal source emphasizes Princess Catherine's resilience amidst online chatter and media scrutiny.
March 18, 2024: Princess Catherine and Prince William Spotted At Farm Shop
Photos and videos of The Prince and Princess of Wales visiting a farm ship circulate online, with Princess Catherine wearing a meaningful sweater bearing her patronage's logo. An insider revealed to the Daily Mail: "The earlier she can appear in public, the quicker cruel rumors will be banished."
Agan said: "In fact, my own social media has gone crazy as people think it is me, but I know it is not. I was at work at the time so I know that is not me. I 100 percent believe that it is Kate Middleton and William in that video."
March 19, 2024: Princess Catherine's Medical Records Were Involved in a Security Breach
Alarming reports emerge of a potential security breach involving Princess Catherine's medical records at the London Clinic. The breach raises concerns about patient privacy and prompts calls for a thorough investigation into the alleged incident.
The Daily Mail has reported that three workers are believed to have been suspended over the attempted breach.
We wish Princess Catherine the very best on her recovery journey and send our thoughts to her family at this time.
Last month, the Princess of Wales released a video message informing the public that she had been diagnosed with cancer after speculations about her whereabouts went viral on social media.
Watch the video below:
In the emotional video, the 42-year-old revealed that she and her husband are taking the time to explain the situation to their three young children - George, 10, Charlotte, eight, and Louis, five.
"This, of course, came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family," she said.
"As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment," she added.
She has paused her royal duties while she undergoes preventative chemotherapy.
The Princess of Wales revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer. Credit: Samir Hussein / Getty
The Prince of Wales has been making solo appearances while his wife takes time off for treatment.
On Tuesday (April 30), the 41-year-old visited Seaham and Newcastle, where he did his first official engagement at Low Carbon Materials.
He then went to Newcastle where he opened James' Place - a charitably-run suicide prevention center offering free, life-saving treatment for young men from a new base in Summerhill.
While there, a member of the public, draped in a Union Flag, asked the heir to the throne: "Do you mind if I ask how your wife and children are?" according to Metro.
William responded: "All doing well, thank you. Yes, we’re doing well."
King Charles III - who is also being treated for cancer - will return to public duties. Credit: Karwai Tang / Getty
In other royal news, King Charles III - who is also being treated for cancer - has returned to public duties.
The 75-year-old announced in February that he had been diagnosed following treatment for a benign enlarged prostate. The Royal Family did not specify the form of cancer.
On Friday (April 26), Buckingham Palace revealed in a statement that said: “His Majesty the King will shortly return to public-facing duties after a period of treatment and recuperation following his recent cancer diagnosis," per The Guardian.
His first engagement was a visit to a cancer treatment center on Tuesday. He will also host a state visit by the emperor and empress of Japan in June.
“As the first anniversary of the coronation approaches, Their Majesties remain deeply grateful for the many kindnesses and good wishes they have received from around the world throughout the joys and challenges of the past year,” the statement continued.
The spokesperson said the King’s treatment program would continue, “but doctors are sufficiently pleased with the progress so far that the king is now able to resume a number of public-facing duties”.
Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has confirmed she is battling cancer after taking time away from the limelight since the start of the year.
The royal, 42, had undergone major abdominal surgery in January, which the Palace had previously said was "planned" and "not related to cancer".
However, following intense speculation from the public, the Princess shared a video message on Friday confirming that while doctors did not initially believe she had cancer, it was later found as a result of the surgery.
She is now undergoing preventative chemotherapy and is focused on making a full recovery.
Watch Princess Catherine's message below:
Following her surgery in January, the Palace initially stated that Princess Catherine was expected to return to public duties after Easter, however, the Princess has since confirmed that she will return "when she is able" after completing chemotherapy.
Here is a timeline of what has happened since her most recent royal engagement:
December 25, 2023: Most Recent Royal Engagement
She made her most recent official royal engagement at Christmas, taking part in the traditional walk at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Norfolk, accompanied by her husband William and their children Louis, Charlotte, and George, as well as other members of the royal family in attendance for the service.
Afterward, the family took time to greet well-wishers gathered outside the church before heading back to Sandringham House to continue their Christmas celebrations.
Princess Catherine's most recent royal engagement was at Christmas. Credit: Stephen Pond/Getty
January 17, 2024: Princess Catherine's "Planned Abdominal Surgery" Is Announced
Kensington Palace reveals Princess Catherine's upcoming abdominal surgery, sending shockwaves through the public. The statement confirmed that the surgery went as planned, and was "not cancer-related."
"The surgery was successful, and it is expected that she will remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days before returning home to continue her recovery," the palace shares.
January 17, 2024: Prince William Cancels His Royal Appointments
Prince William clears his schedule to be with Princess Catherine during her recovery, showing unwavering support in the wake of her surgery.
January 18, 2024: The Palace Releases Its First Statement Post-Op
Kensington Palace updated the public on Princess Catherine's condition, stating that she is "doing well", marking the first of a few updates from the Royal Family.
The statement continued: "The surgery was successful and it is expected that she will remain in hospital for ten to fourteen days, before returning home to continue her recovery.
"Based on the current medical advice, she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."
January 18, 2024: Prince William Visits Kate in the Hospital
Prince William pays a low-key visit to Princess Catherine at the London Clinic.
Prince William, Prince of Wales seen leaving The London Clinic after visiting his wife on January 18, 2024. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty
January 29, 2024: Princess Catherine Heads Home
After nearly two weeks in the hospital, Princess Catherine is discharged, with the palace announcing her return to Windsor for continued recovery.
"The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery. She is making good progress," Kensington Palace noted in a statement.
February 7, 2024: William Mentions Princess Catherine's Recovery
Prince William acknowledges the public's support for Princess Catherine during a speech at a fundraising gala, expressing gratitude for the well-wishes.
February 27, 2024: William Unexpectedly Pulls Out of an Appointment
William unexpectedly cancels an appearance at his godfather's memorial service, sparking speculation about the reason behind his absence.
The public grew concerned about Princess Catherine's whereabouts. Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
February 2024: 'Where Is Kate Middleton?' Starts to Trend Online
As public curiosity mounts, Kensington Palace addresses concerns over Princess Catherine's absence, emphasizing her recovery while dismissing unfounded rumors.
Circulating conspiracy theories led to her representative stating: "Kensington Palace clarified in January the expected recovery period for the princess and stated that we would only share important updates. We continue to follow that directive."
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Hires A New Secretary
Amidst swirling rumors, Princess Catherine appoints Lt. Col. Tom White as her private secretary, adding fuel to speculation about the Royal Family's handling of Kate's health.
March 4, 2024: Princess Catherine Is Seen for the First Time Since Her Surgery With Carole Middleton
Princess Catherine's sighting with her mother, Carole Middleton, prompts further scrutiny, with insiders questioning the palace's handling of Kate's recovery and public appearances.
March 10, 2024: Princess Catherine's Now-Infamous Mother's Day Post
Princess Catherine resurfaces on social media for Mother's Day, but controversy ensues over the heavily edited family photo, leading to retractions by major news agencies and widespread speculation.
The post was accompanied by the caption: "Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months. Wishing everyone a Happy Mother's Day."
March 11, 2024: Princess Catherine's Photoshop Apology
In response to the photo debacle, Princess Catherine issues an apology, admitting to editing the image.
She told followers of her and Prince William's official Twitter (now X) account: "Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing. I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother’s Day. C."
March 12, 2024: What's Going On With This Year's Trooping The Colour?
Reports surface that Princess Catherine's name has been quietly removed from the Trooping the Colour attendee list, raising questions about her recovery timeline. The Ministry of Defense initially listed her as attending the event on June 8 but swiftly removed the claim.
Kensington Palace clarifies that her attendance has not been confirmed.
March 13, 2024: Another Photoshop Controversy
Newspapers publish photos of Princess Catherine and Prince William on their way to a Commonwealth Day service, sparking speculation about image manipulation. Despite concerns, photo agency Goff Photos denies doctoring any images.
March 14, 2024: Royal Update That Kate Is "Smiling" And "Upbeat"
Amid mounting speculation, insiders assure the public that Princess Catherine is in good spirits and has been seen outside the house. A royal source emphasizes Princess Catherine's resilience amidst online chatter and media scrutiny.
March 18, 2024: Princess Catherine and Prince William Spotted At Farm Shop
Photos and videos of The Prince and Princess of Wales visiting a farm ship circulate online, with Princess Catherine wearing a meaningful sweater bearing her patronage's logo. An insider revealed to the Daily Mail: "The earlier she can appear in public, the quicker cruel rumors will be banished."
Agan said: "In fact, my own social media has gone crazy as people think it is me, but I know it is not. I was at work at the time so I know that is not me. I 100 percent believe that it is Kate Middleton and William in that video."
March 19, 2024: Princess Catherine's Medical Records Were Involved In A Security Breach
Alarming reports emerge of a potential security breach involving Princess Catherine's medical records at the London Clinic. The breach raises concerns about patient privacy and prompts calls for a thorough investigation into the alleged incident.
The Daily Mail has reported that three workers are believed to have been suspended over the attempted breach.
March 22, 2024: Princess Catherine Shares A Video Message Confirming She Has Cancer
Princess Catherine opened up about her diagnosis in a video message to the public, confirming that cancer was found as a result of her major abdominal surgery in January.
She revealed that she was in the early stages of preventative chemotherapy and asked for time and privacy to deal with her health battle.
The decision was made to announce the news on Friday, March 22, as the couple's children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, finished school for Easter on that day, so would be able to avoid the increased attention following the announcement.
Her message was positive as she revealed she was feeling "well" and is focused on "making a full recovery".
We wish Princess Catherine the very best on her recovery journey and send our thoughts to her family at this time.
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