Kate Middleton shares rare public praise for Prince William during cancer charity reception
London: Catherine, Princess of Wales, offered a rare glimpse into her affection for Prince William during a surprise appearance at a reception celebrating the work of Cancer Research UK, drawing warm reactions from guests with her candid remarks about her husband.
The Princess of Wales joined King Charles III and Queen Camilla at a recent reception held in the Throne Room of St James’s Palace to mark the 125th anniversary of Cancer Research UK, one of Britain’s leading cancer charities.
During conversations with guests, Kate made a number of personal comments about Prince William, reflecting the strong bond the couple continue to share after more than 15 years of marriage and a particularly challenging period for their family.
While speaking with singer Ronan Keating and his wife, Storm Keating, the discussion turned to the Prince of Wales. After the couple praised William and described him as a gentleman, Kate responded with a smile, “So do I,” prompting laughter and delight among those present.
The brief exchange was widely seen as an unusually open expression of affection from the future queen, who generally keeps personal reflections about her marriage private during public engagements.
Kate also spoke warmly about William while meeting Sebastian Bowen, whose late wife, Dame Deborah James, became a prominent advocate for bowel cancer awareness before her death in 2022.
Bowen recalled the support his family had received from Prince William during difficult times and mentioned the prince’s thoughtful guidance and encouragement. Responding to the comments, Kate praised her husband, saying, “He’s good like that,” highlighting William’s compassionate approach in supporting families facing serious illness.
The reception carried particular significance for the Princess of Wales, who has spoken publicly about her own cancer journey. Following her diagnosis in 2024, Kate underwent treatment and later announced that she had completed chemotherapy before confirming she was in remission in early 2025.
Her openness about the experience marked a notable departure from traditional royal practice and was widely viewed as helping raise awareness about cancer and the challenges faced by patients and their families.
Guests at the reception noted Kate’s relaxed and confident demeanour as she engaged with cancer survivors, campaigners, researchers and charity supporters. Dressed in a red-and-white ensemble complemented by ruby and diamond jewellery, she spent time listening to personal stories and acknowledging the contributions of those involved in cancer research and patient support.
Royal observers have noted that the health challenges faced by the Prince and Princess of Wales over the past two years appear to have strengthened their partnership. Throughout Kate’s treatment and recovery, Prince William maintained a reduced public schedule to support his wife and their three children, reinforcing the couple’s emphasis on family life and shared decision-making.
Sources close to the royal household have suggested that the experience brought the couple even closer together, helping them build resilience while navigating one of the most difficult periods of their lives.
Now gradually returning to a fuller programme of public engagements, the Princess of Wales has increasingly focused on causes related to health, wellbeing and early intervention, while continuing to support charitable initiatives across the United Kingdom.
Her appearance at the Cancer Research UK reception not only highlighted the importance of continued investment in cancer research but also provided a rare and heartfelt insight into the enduring relationship between the Prince and Princess of Wales, whose partnership remains at the centre of the future of the British monarchy.