King Charles III is not a fan of the idea of handing over his throne to his eldest son Prince William. The 77-year-old’s cancer battle has put speculation about his successor in the spotlight. 

In February 2024, Charles was diagnosed with an unspecified form of cancer when he underwent treatment for an enlarged prostate at the London Clinic Private Hospital. However, the King shared some good news earlier this month, stating that his cancer treatment schedule could be reduced in the upcoming year due to early detection and effective treatment. 

Despite that, Charles’ illness has raised concerns among the public and the media about his royal successor. This is a topic that he is reportedly unhappy to discuss, as he has always wanted to be King, and after he achieved that, the focus has now shifted to “who will come next.”

The public has naturally assumed his eldest son as the next monarch of England. But, according to US Weekly, King Charles III is “not thrilled” about Prince William taking up the throne as his successor. 

A source stated, “He doesn’t feel great about it, as he has finally attained the position he has waited for his whole life. Now that he’s king, everyone is focused on who will come next.” 

The source also claims that William and his wife Kate Middleton are sending a message of authority to the public as the Prince is “strong-minded and stubborn” in royal matters.

There is also a belief that the royal couple’s regal appearance at the state banquet earlier this month was meant to show that the “monarchy is healthy regardless of what happens with [the king].”

 

In the midst of things, it seems like their son Prince George is also taking on more responsibilities in recent weeks. The source believes it shows that “the next generation is already in view.”

King Charles III on the other hand, has no plans to abdicate the throne anytime soon despite his ongoing cancer battle and recent hospitalization. Royal insiders have confirmed that he is still very actively involved in royal duties and has not relinquished control to his son. William is also supportive of his father’s decision. 

Royal insiders have stated that abdication is a rare and controversial act in the British monarchy. The last time an abdication took place was all the way back in 1936 when Edward VIII stepped down from the throne and caused a “constitutional crisis.” 

Charles took the throne in September 2022, after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, passed away. According to Fox News, British Royal Expert Hilary Fordwich believes that the 77-year-old will dedicate himself to the duty to honor his mother’s values. “Given his mother’s values, King Charles is most likely to do all he can to continue serving, dedicating himself to duty,” Fordwich said.

 

While Charles is continuing his duties as the King and has the support of Prince William, speculation about the future of the throne continues to dominate royal speculation.