Prince William and Kate Middleton Prioritize Family Over Royal Duties

A royal author says the couple's handling of Kate's cancer diagnosis shows their family-first approach.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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According to royal author Russell Myers, Prince William and Kate Middleton have consistently prioritized their family over royal duties, as evidenced by how William stepped back from public engagements to support Kate during her cancer treatment in 2024. The couple openly discussed Kate's diagnosis with their three children and worked to maintain normalcy for the family during a challenging time.

Why it matters

The royal couple's decision to prioritize family over public obligations challenges traditional notions of royal duty and highlights their commitment to their children's wellbeing, even in the face of personal health crises.

The details

When both Kate Middleton and King Charles III were diagnosed with cancer in early 2024, Prince William felt the "rug had been pulled from under him." However, his primary concern was caring for his wife and children. William took a step back from public duties to support Kate through her treatment, while also helping their three kids, George, Charlotte, and Louis, maintain a sense of normalcy. Kate's parents and siblings also provided regular support during this time.

  • In January 2024, Kate underwent "planned abdominal surgery" and was hospitalized for two weeks.
  • In March 2024, Kate was diagnosed with cancer and began a course of preventative chemotherapy.
  • In September 2024, Kate announced she had finished her cancer treatments.
  • In January 2025, Kate announced she was in remission.

The players

Prince William

The Prince of Wales, who stepped back from public duties to support his wife Kate during her cancer treatment.

Kate Middleton

The Princess of Wales, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and underwent treatment while prioritizing her family.

King Charles III

The King, who was also diagnosed with cancer around the same time as his daughter-in-law Kate.

Russell Myers

A royal author who wrote a book about Prince William and Kate Middleton, and who provided insights into the couple's family-first approach during Kate's illness.

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What they’re saying

“Behind the scenes, for William it was brutal. He was having to manage all these emotions that, you know, what was he going to do to look after his wife first and foremost? How would he be there for his father? But what duties was he going to have to take on? Was his public role going to change as well?”

— Russell Myers, Royal editor of The Mirror and author (Manchester Evening News)

“The duty is important to them, but it has to come second in respect to their family because if they get the family right then everything will follow.”

— Russell Myers, Royal editor of The Mirror and author (Manchester Evening News)

What’s next

The royal couple continues to balance their public duties with their commitment to their family, with a focus on supporting each other and their children during challenging times.

The takeaway

Prince William and Kate Middleton's handling of Kate's cancer diagnosis demonstrates their unwavering dedication to prioritizing their family's wellbeing over royal obligations, a approach that has earned them widespread admiration and respect.