Royal commentator Kate Nicholl has suggested that Prince William, the Prince of Wales, becoming king “may not be too far in the future,” as King Charles continues to battle cancer.

Charles, who became monarch in September 2022 following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, was 73 at the time, making him the oldest person to ascend the British throne. He had also been the longest-serving heir in history. In February 2024, he announced a diagnosis of an undisclosed form of cancer. Buckingham Palace confirmed in April 2024 that he would resume public-facing duties during treatment, though he was hospitalized in March 2025 due to temporary side effects.

In a rare personal reflection, the king told fellow cancer patients in April: “Each diagnosis, each new case, will be a daunting and at times frightening experience for those individuals and their loved ones. But as one among those statistics myself, I can vouch for the fact that it can also be an experience that brings into sharp focus the very best of humanity.”

Prince William Ready to Take the Throne

With his father’s health in mind, Nicholl told OK!: “The crown will never have felt closer to the prince than it does now. His father’s illness has been a stark reminder that it’s his turn next, and it may not be too far in the distant future.”

She added that William’s various international engagements show he has mastered diplomacy. “The aides I’ve spoken to and those who know him best say he is absolutely prepared,” she said. “Of course, it’s a moment he doesn’t want to think about. He loves his father and wants him to be around for a long time, but when the time comes, he will be ready.”

Royal expert Duncan Larcombe echoed the sentiment, telling the magazine: “William and Kate are at the forefront of the Firm and have become the monarchy’s biggest asset. They have a pivotal role in ensuring continuity and calm when at times there’s been anything but that behind the scenes.”

William has also hinted at how he might approach his future reign. During a visit to South Africa last November, he said he intends to “do it differently… for my generation.” He explained, “I’m doing it with maybe a smaller ‘R’ in the royal, if you like, that’s maybe a better way of saying it.”