Prince William Opens Up About Kate Middleton's Cancer Battle: "The Hardest Year of My Life"

Kate Middleton received a cancer diagnosis in early 2024, an event that profoundly impacted the royal family.

Prince William has opened up about the emotional impact of his wife Kate Middleton's cancer battle, describing 2024 as "the hardest year of my life." He revealed that her diagnosis took him "into some pretty not great places" emotionally.

During his appearance on Apple TV+'s "The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy," the Prince of Wales candidly discussed navigating the challenges of both Kate's health crisis and his father's ongoing cancer treatment. King Charles has also been diagnosed with cancer and continues to undergo treatment.

Reflecting on life's unexpected turns, the 43-year-old prince shared, "You maybe think to yourself, it won't happen to us, we'll be OK. Because I think everyone has a positive outlook, you've got to be positive. But when it does happen to you, then it takes you into some pretty not great places."

He further emphasized the difficulty of recent times, stating, "I'd say 2023-24 was the hardest year I've ever had. You know, life is sent to test us and being able to overcome that is what makes us who we are."

William also discussed how their children—Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7—have been affected by their mother's diagnosis.

"Everyone has their own coping mechanisms for these sorts of things, and children are constantly learning and adapting," he explained.

The prince elaborated on their parenting approach during this challenging period: "We try to make sure we give them the security and the safety that they need. And we're a very open family, so we talk about things that bother us, and things that trouble us."

Regarding the family's overall health history, Prince William noted they had been fortunate until recently, with few serious illnesses affecting them. He mentioned that his grandparents, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, both lived well into their 90s.

"So, we've been very lucky as a family. But I think when you suddenly realize that the rug, the metaphorical rug, can be pulled from under your feet quite quick at any point," he reflected.

The prince also spoke about missing his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, particularly when at Windsor Castle. "I do actually, yeah I do miss my grandmother, and my grandfather," he admitted, adding that being in Windsor reminds him of her presence and makes him contemplate life without her. He explained that the Queen had a special affection for Windsor Castle and spent much of her time there.

William also highlighted the castle's historical significance, noting that during World War II, it served as the primary residence for then-Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret throughout their childhood years.

He shared that when giving tours of Windsor today, he tries to present it in a way that would have pleased his grandmother.

The special episode featuring Prince William on "The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy" is scheduled to air on October 3, with new episodes of the series releasing weekly until the finale on October 31.