King Charles' 'true feelings' about abdicating throne following past 'crisis' in royal family
Charles became monarch in September 2022The prospect of King Charles abdicating the throne is “unlikely” even despite his recent health woes, a royal commentator claimed.
The king, 77, became monarch in September 2022 following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. At the age of 73, he became the oldest person to take up the throne in UK history at the time.
His heir is William, Prince of Wales, Charles’ eldest son. When King Charles’ cancer diagnosis was announced in February 2024, the monarch briefly scaled back duties to focus on his treatment. Prince William stepped up as both his father and his wife, Princess Catherine, underwent treatment for cancer.
However, it wasn’t long before King Charles was back to work as he balanced his duty as sovereign with his health.
Is King Charles abdicating?
No, King Charles hasn’t abdicated the throne. But rumours persist due to his cancer journey.
The king carries on his duties, both UK engagements and overseas visits, as his cancer treatment also continues.
In late 2025, King Charles announced the “good news” that his cancer treatment could be “reduced in the new year”.
King Charles is most likely to do all he can to continue serving, dedicating himself to duty.
2026 is already looking busy for the king, with reports of a trip to the United States being considered as well as the usual big royal events throughout the year.
Despite his health journey, it seems King Charles hasn’t considered the idea of abdicating. Queen Camilla previously said that Charles was refusing to slow down amid his cancer treatment.
According to a royal commentator, the king is “dedicating himself to duty” just like his late mother did.
Queen Elizabeth II was the longest-reigning monarch in British history. Her historic reign spanned over 70 years.
‘Dedicating himself to duty’
Previously speaking to Fox News, royal commentator Hilary Fordwich explained that Prince William and Princess Catherine have been “readying to assume leadership roles” in preparation for their future positions as king and queen.
However, it seems these preparations are just standard.
Fordwich said the king won’t want to repeat the past “constitutional crisis” of Edward VIII’s decision to abdicate the throne in order to marry Wallis Simpson.
Edward abdicated the throne in 1936 in order to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson. It caused a constitutional crisis as the marriage was opposed by the Church of England, of which Edward as monarch was the head, the UK government and the royal’s advisors.
He was succeeded by his younger brother, George VI, Queen Elizabeth II’s father and King Charles’ grandfather.
Fordwich added: “Given his mother’s values, King Charles is most likely to do all he can to continue serving, dedicating himself to duty.”
Prince William’s future as king
The Prince of Wales is the heir to the throne and previously spoke about the “change” he wants to bring to the monarchy when his time comes.
Speaking to Eugene Levy on his Apple TV+ show, The Reluctant Traveler, William said: “I think it’s safe to say that change is on my agenda. Change for good, and I embrace that and I enjoy that change.
“I don’t fear it. Not overly radical change, but changes that I think need to happen.”
Read more: One key move Prince William encouraged to make when he becomes king
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