Why Prince William & Kate Middleton Are a 'Different Couple' After Her Cancer Battle

Prince William and Kate Middleton probably didn’t expect their 2024 to look like this. They had plans for an international tour while growing his Earthshot Prize Awards and her childhood education initiative, but much of that has been put on hold while Kate battles cancer. The unexpected illness reportedly rocked the royal family, and it has changed the dynamics of the Prince and Princess of Wales’ marriage forever.

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The change was on display at Trooping the Colour on Saturday, June 15 when William and Kate stood on that balcony and gave each other the sweetest smiles. It was the acknowledgment of how far they had come — looking back just a few months before, it was unknown when the Princess of Wales would return to public life. “William and Kate seem like a different couple! They used to be more reserved,” an insider shared with Us Weekly . “But now, they can’t help but look at each other and smile.”

Prince William was supportive of her return by “staying by her side and offering her reassurance” because she was “ a bit nervous ” about her first public appearance in six months — she knew the world was watching. “William was grateful to have Kate there, and it meant a lot to Charles too,” they added. The Prince of Wales has also stepped up his parental duties which has been helpful to Kate on the days she isn’t feeling her best. Being a great dad to Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 5, has only “strengthened their bond.”

Kate’s return to public life is something that is going to require patience because she’s not “out of the woods” yet as she told fans in her personal statement — there are good days and bad days to her treatment. William has been understanding of his wife’s daily battles while encouraging her to put her health ahead of royal duty. It’s a balance he’s had to strike himself with one foot in palace life and the other foot solidly in family life during Kate’s crisis.

The Princess of Wales’ cancer battle has been tough for them both, but it has also renewed their love for each other. “William is so devoted to Kate and their family, and Kate loves celebrating him,” the Us Weekly source noted. “They are just so in love.” It’s a strong second chapter for William and Kate after a rocky few years.

Before you go, click here to see more photos of Prince William & Kate Middleton through the years.