King Charles III experienced temporary side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment and was briefly hospitalised for observation on Thursday morning, according to a statement from Buckingham Palace.
The palace said the King was undergoing scheduled medical treatment when he began experiencing mild complications. As a precaution, doctors advised that he be kept under observation for a short period at a hospital.
“His Majesty’s afternoon engagements were therefore postponed,” the palace stated.
The 76-year-old monarch has since returned to his official residence at Clarence House in London. The palace added that his Friday engagements in Birmingham have also been rescheduled as a precautionary measure.
King Charles Disappointed to Miss Public Events
According to Buckingham Palace, the King had been scheduled to receive ambassadors from three countries on Thursday and attend four public events in Birmingham on Friday.
“His Majesty is greatly disappointed to be missing them,” said the palace, “and offers his deepest apologies to all those who worked so hard to make the planned visit possible.”
Despite his illness, the King had recently resumed a busy schedule, after cutting back public duties earlier this year following the announcement of his cancer diagnosis in February 2024.
Palace Applauded for Transparency
Royal experts praised the palace’s decision to be open and transparent about the King’s health.
“The palace is being very clear to avoid rumours,” said royal commentator Jonathan Sacerdoti. “In past decades, such health matters were kept secret, even during Queen Elizabeth II’s time. But now the royal family is helping to build public trust by being more open.”
Experts also noted that the King’s efforts to stay active show his dedication to the role, despite his ongoing health struggles.
Upcoming Travel Plans Still in Place
King Charles is still expected to travel to the Vatican next month for a meeting with Pope Francis, after previously delaying the visit due to the Pope’s health concerns. A broader state visit to Italy is also planned after that.
Royal Health Under the Spotlight
The King’s brief hospital visit comes after weeks of speculation about his ability to manage royal duties while undergoing treatment. Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner said this incident may renew discussions about whether Prince William and Princess Kate should take on more leadership behind the scenes.
“He’s trying to keep up with a schedule that would be demanding for any man his age,” Turner said.
Meanwhile, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, revealed earlier this year that she too had been battling cancer. After completing her preventative chemotherapy in September, she stated:
“Although I’ve finished chemotherapy, my recovery will take time. I’m looking forward to returning to work slowly in the coming months.”