King Charles III’s physical appearance left one royal expert concerned before his cancer diagnosis was announced. “I have for some time thought that King Charles looks teary and tired, but I put this down to grief, a demanding workload and family upsets as he is incredibly fit,” royal broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard told Fox News Digital.
“I’m sure grief has affected Charles as it would any caring person, but he has enormous support and love from his family and all working royals,” she shared. “Prince William is back to work. The Princess Royal is busy as ever and so is Queen Camilla. I do feel sorry for Queen Camilla, though. She is really pushed as she is also making sure her husband is happy and well. Luckily, she is a kind, happy and strong character, and that’s exactly what is required at this delicate time.”
The 75-year-old has been diagnosed with a form of cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace announced on Monday. The palace didn’t say what form of cancer the British monarch has, but noted it’s not related to his recent treatment for a benign prostate condition.
The palace said “a separate issue of concern was noted” during Charles’ treatment for an enlarged prostate last month when he spent three nights in a London hospital. “Diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the palace said in a statement.
Charles ascended to the throne upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. England’s longest-reigning monarch died in 2022 at age 96.
British broadcaster and commentator Jonathan Sacerdoti told Fox News Digital that the king has maintained a stoic image. He doesn’t doubt that any somber image may have stemmed from losing his beloved mother, as opposed to any physical ailments.
“Grief has likely had a significant impact on King Charles over the last couple of years,” he explained. “Losing one’s parents, especially one as influential and central to one’s life as Queen Elizabeth II was to King Charles, can have profound effects. The period following the queen’s passing has been one of immense change and adjustment for Charles, not only personally, but also in his new role as monarch. This transition, coupled with the responsibility of leading the royal family during a period of national mourning, could certainly contribute to stress and its physical manifestations.”