Princess Kate and Prince William's future plans have now been unveiled, as sources reveal that they won’t be making any drastic changes for 2025. According to a royal insider, the Princess of Wales had announced in September that she had completed a course of preventive chemotherapy and has since been carefully easing back into public duties.
In a video message, Kate shared, "This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life—things we often take for granted, such as simply loving and being loved."
A source close to the royals told The Mail that Kate will continue balancing her recovery with her royal responsibilities. The insider explained, “There won’t be a major reset in January. Instead, what we’ll see is a gradual continuation of the Princess's balance between her recovery and her public duties, as she outlined in September.” They added that both Kate and William remain deeply committed to their royal roles, service, and using their platform for the greater good.
In December, Kate made two notable public appearances with her children, Prince George (11), Princess Charlotte (9), and Prince Louis (6). The first was at Westminster Abbey for the "Together at Christmas" Carol service, and the second was at Sandringham for the Royal Family's annual walk to church on Christmas Day.
The royal insider explained that Kate would continue confirming her attendance at events only when she is certain she can fully commit to the engagements. “She prefers to confirm her attendance only when she knows she can be there, to avoid disappointing anyone if she has to cancel,” the source shared.
In an interview in November, Prince William described 2024 as an extremely challenging year. "It’s been dreadful. It’s probably been the hardest year of my life," he confessed. "From a personal and family point of view, it’s been... yeah, it’s been brutal."
Kate's health struggles have also deeply influenced her personal transformation. A body language expert noted that following her cancer diagnosis and treatment, Kate exhibited a noticeable change in her public demeanor. Body language expert Judy James remarked that Kate’s smiles, laughter, posture, and energy at events like the "Together at Christmas" service at Westminster Abbey indicated positive signs of recovery.
This shift in Kate’s behavior parallels some traits of her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. James noted that Kate’s animated body language and emotional range reflected Diana’s qualities, particularly when interacting with cancer survivors, showing a newfound emotional confidence.
James also pointed to a specific moment during the event when Kate recounted a story about her younger children, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte. "She used expressive gestures and mime-like actions as she told the story, signaling a significant change in her public persona," James added. This more animated style of storytelling marks a departure from the reserved approach Kate often used in previous years.
In addition to her more vibrant demeanor, Kate was spotted wearing Princess Diana's iconic sapphire engagement ring during a public engagement with Prince William in November. The 12-carat sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds set in white gold has significant sentimental value and historical importance. Kate’s choice to wear this ring, a symbol of Diana's enduring legacy, marked a rare public appearance after completing her cancer treatment.
Kate was radiant in a burgundy coat dress by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen as she joined Prince William to welcome the Amir of Qatar and his wife at Horse Guard’s Parade in London. This engagement kicked off a busy week for the Princess, who would later host her annual Christmas service at Westminster Abbey.
The sapphire ring, originally chosen by Prince Charles for Diana in 1981, holds deep historical significance, having been inspired by a brooch given to Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1840. Diana continued wearing the ring even after her divorce, symbolizing her attachment to it. Recently, Kate had been seen wearing a different eternity band, but she chose to wear the sapphire again for this important state occasion, following its debut at the Festival of Remembrance earlier in November.
Kate's journey this year has been a testament to resilience and emotional growth. With her return to public duties and her commitment to her family, the Princess of Wales is embracing her royal role in a way that feels more personal and genuine. As she continues her recovery and fulfills her royal responsibilities, her evolving approach will undoubtedly continue to captivate the public.
