King Charles Is Going Back to Work

Monarch will resume public duties next week following treatment for cancer
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Apr 26, 2024 1:19 PM CDT
After Cancer Treatment, King Charles Is Going Back to Work
Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla are seen in Buckingham Palace Gardens on April 10.   (Millie Pilkington/Buckingham Palace via AP)

King Charles III will resume his public duties next week following treatment for cancer, Buckingham Palace announced Friday. Charles took a break from public appearances almost three months ago to focus on his treatment for an undisclosed type of cancer. The palace said Charles would make a public visit to a cancer treatment center on Tuesday in the first of several appearances he will make in coming weeks, per the AP. One of his first major engagements will be hosting a state visit by the emperor and empress of Japan in June.

The palace didn't provide an update on the king's health or his treatment, though it says that the "medical team are very encouraged by the progress made so far and remain positive about the king's continued recovery." Charles continued his state duties, including reviewing government documents and meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, after his diagnosis was disclosed on Feb. 5. "His Majesty is greatly encouraged to be resuming some public-facing duties and very grateful to his medical team for their continued care and expertise," the palace said in a statement.

Charles' return will relieve pressure on other members of the royal family after the king's absence—coupled with that of the Princess of Wales, also due to illness—highlighted the challenges faced by a slimmed-down monarchy. Amid the king's commitment to cut costs and the decision of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex—more commonly known as Prince Harry and Meghan—to walk away from royal duties, there are simply fewer family members available to carry out the endless round of ribbon cuttings, awards ceremonies, and state events that make up the life of a modern royal.

(More King Charles III stories.)

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