LONDON: King Charles recent appearance at the COP30 climate summit in London has raised fresh concerns about his health within Buckingham Palace, according to media reports.
Palace insiders claim that the “illusion of the King’s perfect health is collapsing.” The 76-year-old monarch, who has been receiving cancer treatment since early 2024, appeared noticeably thinner and paler during the event.
Although official palace statements maintain that the King is “doing well” and continuing with light duties, a source quoted by Radar Online said senior aides are preparing Prince William to assume greater responsibility sooner than expected.
“He looked like a man fighting something much bigger than he’s letting on,” one source said, adding that “his suit was hanging off him.” Another insider remarked, “You can’t Photoshop frailty — what we’re seeing is the reality behind the crown: a monarch in decline.”
The report also suggests that the palace is quietly preparing William to step up in case the King’s health worsens.
PRINCE WILLIAM”S PARENTING SKILLS
Meanwhile, Prince William’s parenting approach has reportedly caused unease among palace staff. The Prince of Wales, determined to raise Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis in a more grounded and less traditional royal environment, is said to be “breaking away from the royal mold.”
Some courtiers view this as risky, drawing parallels to Princess Diana’s past clashes with the so-called “Men in Grey Suits.” According to insiders, tensions could be resurfacing as William insists on doing things his own way.
“William wants his children to grow up grounded,” one source said. “But senior staff worry history may be repeating itself.”
The insider added, “William is strong-willed and determined. The establishment respects him, but they also want to remind him that the monarchy’s strength lies not just in change — but in unity and its image of enduring power.”
