Despite King Charles’s well-known dedication and tireless work ethic, Prince William may need to assume a larger share of royal duties in the coming years.
At 76, King Charles ascended to the throne in September 2022 following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, who ruled for seven decades. Last year, the King was diagnosed with can:cer, prompting a temporary reduction in his public duties to focus on treatment.
Since then, he has managed a balance between ongoing medical care and his official engagements, including some international travel.
Still, as he grows older, it’s expected that some responsibilities may gradually be passed on to Prince William. A former palace staff member has suggested that this transition could happen sooner rather than later.
Growing Responsibilities for Prince William
Jack Stooks, a former senior gardener at Highgrove, where King Charles resided, recently spoke about the likelihood of Prince William increasing his royal workload.
His remarks come as King Charles and Queen Camilla prepare for a brief two-day visit to Canada, during which the King will formally open Canada’s Parliament — a rare event last carried out by Queen Elizabeth in 1957.
Speaking to Genting Casino, Stooks shared, “Charles has always been committed to his royal duties and frequently travels for official events. While Queen Camilla prefers to avoid flying, they both adapt well once they arrive.”
He added that their recent trip to Italy, where they were seen enjoying themselves, highlighted how travel lifts their spirits. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that as Charles ages, he may slow down in the same way Queen Elizabeth did, creating opportunities for Prince William to gradually take on more.
Will King Charles Ever Abdicate?
Following his can:cer diagnosis, Prince William has already begun to assume more responsibilities in preparation for his eventual role as king. This has sparked speculation over whether Charles might consider stepping aside.
However, Grant Harrold, who worked as Charles’s butler from 2004 to 2011, believes abdication is not something the King would entertain.
Speaking to Prime Casino, Harrold emphasized that King Charles, like his mother before him, views his role as a lifelong commitment: “Abdication? Absolutely not. He will serve until his last day. That deep sense of duty is central to who he is.”
Harrold also noted that while Charles may reduce his public appearances with age, relinquishing the throne is not in his character.
Preparations for a Reduced Role
Although stepping down appears unlikely, King Charles has made contingency plans in the event he becomes unable to fulfill his royal obligations.
According to Harrold, the King has designated Princess Anne, Prince Edward, Queen Camilla, and reportedly Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, as Counsellors of State — trusted members of the royal family authorized to carry out official duties on his behalf if necessary.
These measures ensure the continuity of the monarchy, even if Charles needs to delegate more responsibilities in the future.
