King Charles avoids giving advice to Kate Middleton, expert says

Both King Charles III and Kate Middleton faced a challenging 2024 as they battled cancer, stepping back from royal duties to focus on treatment. Their shared struggles deepened their close bond, with Charles reportedly seeing Kate as the ‘daughter he never had.’

King Charles III and the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, have long been known to share a close and affectionate relationship. But their ties grew even stronger during a harrowing time in 2024, when both were diagnosed with cancer just weeks apart. Charles, 75, was diagnosed in February, followed by Kate’s announcement in March.

Their mutual health challenges created an opportunity for deeper connection, as the two supported one another through treatment. Royal expert Victoria Arbiter explained on The Royal Beat that the experience likely brought “tremendous comfort” to both, helping them navigate an emotional and physical battle together.

According to royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith, the king and Kate’s relationship has always been warm, but their shared ordeal has made it even stronger. “He has always had a very good bond with her. I don’t think it is presumptuous to say that she is like the daughter he never had,” Smith told People Magazine.

Emotional moments – “My beloved daughter-in-law”

The king made his support for Kate public after her cancer diagnosis, issuing an emotional statement in which he called her courage “inspiring” and noted that he had remained “in the closest contact” with her. Royal commentator Jennie Bond found the choice of words—“closest contact”—noteworthy, calling it a sign of their deep trust and affection.

An especially poignant moment came when Charles and Kate shared a private lunch at Windsor Castle shortly after her diagnosis. According to Bond, the king became emotional after the meeting, which allowed them to discuss their health struggles openly and candidly. “There’s no doubt that cancer has cemented an already strong relationship,” Bond said, adding that the lunch left Charles visibly moved.

Royal insiders revealed that Charles often calls Kate his “beloved daughter-in-law,” a reflection of the deep admiration and affection he has for her.

Why Charles won’t advise Kate on being queen

When the time comes for Prince William to take the throne, Kate Middleton will step into the role of queen consort. However, despite his extensive experience as both a prince and a king, Charles reportedly has no plans to offer her advice on being queen.

Christopher Andersen, author of The King, explained why: “That would simply give oxygen to the notion that he might not be around much longer, and Charles III intends to stay put on the throne for years to come.” Andersen also noted that Charles has the utmost confidence in Kate’s ability to fulfill her future role. “He was so impressed with her grace and grit that he made her a Royal Companion of Honour, a clear sign of his faith in her ability to help carry the monarchy forward.”

Camilla, Queen Consort, is also reportedly not interested in giving Kate advice on queenship. Sources say the two women have a respectful but distant relationship, with no plans for mentoring.

A new perspective for Kate

Kate has since announced she is cancer-free, but her experience has profoundly changed her outlook on life. According to royal insiders, she is prioritizing her family and recovery over returning to a full slate of royal duties. A source told The Daily Mail that Kate and William are focusing on balancing their responsibilities as parents with their royal roles.

“There is no huge reset button that’s going to be hit in January,” the source explained. “What we will actually see is a slow continuation of the princess balancing her recovery and her public-facing duties.”

Another insider added that Kate’s battle with cancer has reshaped her priorities: “Family and their children continue to be at the center of their universe.”

Kate’s public engagements are expected to remain limited in 2025. While she may join Prince William on a short royal trip, there are no plans for any large-scale foreign tours in the immediate future.

A bond built to last

The emotional year has left a lasting impact on King Charles and Kate Middleton’s relationship, cementing their already strong bond. As they both continue to recover and look toward the future, their shared experiences have brought them closer than ever.

Charles may not offer direct advice to Kate about her future role as queen, but he has complete faith in her ability to lead alongside Prince William. As royal commentator Helena Chard noted, “He knows that when the time comes, she will seamlessly transition into the perfect future queen.”

Kate Middleton’s grace and resilience during this challenging chapter of her life have won admiration from the king, her family, and the public alike. Her bond with King Charles has grown deeper through their shared struggles, offering a moving reminder of the power of support and connection during tough times.

As Kate takes her time returning to public life, her focus remains on her family and recovery. But when the day comes for her to take on the title of queen, both Charles and royal experts agree: she will shine in the role, embodying the strength and dignity that define the modern monarchy.

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