William & Kate’s Marriage Takes Unexpected Turn After Cancer ‘Threat’: ‘There Were Ongoing Rumors…’
Jason Pham
Prince William and Kate Middleton went through the wringer during her cancer diagnosis, but their marriage has come out stronger and better than ever.
Kate announced that she was diagnosed with an unspecified type of cancer in March 2024. By September 2024, she was cancer-free, and by January 2025, she revealed that she was in remission. Despite rumors at the time of the effect Kate’s illness had on her and William’s marriage, former royal photographer Ian Pelham Turner told Fox News in January that the diagnosis actually brought William and Kate closer together—not further apart.
“There were ongoing rumors at one time that the marriage between William and Kate may not have been as blissful as publicly portrayed,” Turner said. “William has been known for his outbursts and Kate has found ways of calming the situation down but personally, I feel after the cancer diagnosis and the threat of losing her, the closeness was rekindled.”
He continued, “And that is why decisions were made such as their quieter living accommodation rather than a palace to try and lead a normal family life have become their focus.”
Royal expert Hilary Fordwich also told the publication about the way Kate’s cancer strengthened her and William’s marriage. “Adversity either destroys a marriage or brings couples closer after shared adversity. Certainly, their marriage has resulted in the latter not the former,” she said. “They never stoop down to ghastly gossip, which is most admirable.”
Fordwich also explained how William and Kate’s recent move to Forest Lodge also hints at their new dynamic as a couple. “With their move to Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park, everything there has been seen, by those who know, is really focused primarily on their family stability as well as ever treasured privacy,” she said.
British broadcaster Helena Chard also revealed how Kate has changed as a royal since her cancer diagnosis. “She is keen to strengthen family bonds and create meaningful relationships,” Chard said. “Her commitment to family, community and charitable work resonates with this theme of togetherness. Proof is in the pudding with her personal relationship with her husband. Their relationship is flourishing.”
Chard also noted William’s increased displays of public affection toward Kate as an example of how their relationship has changed. “William is offering an increased emotional openness and Catherine’s gratitude for William’s support during her cancer treatment, their shared experiences navigating turbulent times and their current fresh start has deepened their relationship,” she said. “They enjoy a close bond.”
She continued, “Their relationship, focus on family and each other behind closed doors along with Catherine’s emotional resilience and measured approach to her return to public life has created a calm balance and eased any possible pressure of being future Queen.”
Fordwich also acknowledged William’s different public behavior toward Kate. “In contrast to royals of the past, Prince William has publicly praised Princess Catherine,” she said. “By acknowledging their travails candidly with such openness about their challenges, he is both supportive as well as, importantly, speaking from his heart, rendering him all the more relatable and likable.”
She continued, “Also totally contrary to royal protocol, all his PDA has shown the hands, literally, of a more modern monarchy… Overall, they have a mutual love and respect for each other, and it sure shows.”
