With King Charles continuing cancer treatment, Prince William and Kate Middleton are reportedly facing increased demands to step up their royal responsibilities.
According to royal commentator Camilla Tominey, some Palace staff are growing “frustrated” with the couple’s perceived reluctance to fully commit to their roles.
Tominey noted that even before Kate’s own health struggles, she had already earned the nickname “part-time royal” behind palace doors due to what insiders saw as a lukewarm approach to her public duties.
Balancing Health and Duty
In March 2024, the Prince and Princess of Wales temporarily reduced their public appearances following Kate’s cancer diagnosis. While understandable, Tominey told Royal Insider that pressure on the couple has been mounting. Staff are reportedly concerned that the pair are spending more time focusing on their family than fulfilling obligations to “The Firm.”
Prince William, in particular, has drawn criticism for devoting time to personal projects, including trips to Germany for the Euros and to South Africa for his Earthshot Prize, rather than taking on more traditional royal duties as the future king.
While Kate has cautiously resumed some engagements, sources say she is still firmly committed to being an involved mother to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. As reported, she carried out only 11 official duties in 2024 due to her illness.
