November 11, 2024
The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, found herself at the center of renewed speculation and conspiracy theories following her appearance at the Festival of Remembrance over the weekend. Social media platforms lit up with debates over her health after resurfaced rumors regarding her cancer diagnosis, originally reported inaccurately by Sky News correspondent Rhiannon Mills in September.
In Mills’ initial report, she suggested that Middleton was diagnosed with “pre-cancerous cells” rather than cancer itself. This reporting fueled skepticism on social media, with users on X questioning whether Middleton had exaggerated her health situation for public sympathy. One user alleged that the Princess was “playing the sympathy card,” while another argued that pre-cancerous cells do not equate to a cancer diagnosis. However, Mayo Clinic defines pre-cancerous cells as those with changes that can increase cancer risk, providing some context to the miscommunication. Kensington Palace has not publicly commented on the theories.
Middleton’s health journey became public in January, when it was disclosed she had undergone abdominal surgery. She remained out of the public eye for months, and in a March video message, the Princess revealed that tests after her surgery indicated cancer was present, prompting her to begin a preventive chemotherapy regimen. “I am now in the early stages of that treatment,” she shared at the time.
Her public appearances resumed in June, beginning with her attendance at Trooping the Colour and other events, marking a gradual return. She has since remained active, supporting various royal engagements and making appearances alongside her husband, Prince William, and other members of the royal family.
At Saturday’s Festival of Remembrance, Middleton paid homage to both Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth II, wearing a black coat dress paired with pearl drop earrings that belonged to Diana. The event, however, fueled further scrutiny of her health, with Good Morning Britain journalist Narinder Kaur receiving backlash after commenting on Middleton’s “aging” appearance. Kaur later apologized, calling her remark a “stupid, insensitive tweet.”
The speculation around Middleton’s health echoes a string of conspiracy theories that have circulated during her absence, including rumors about her appearance and unfounded claims about her personal life. Despite the noise, Middleton has maintained her focus on her royal duties, stating in September, “My path to healing and full recovery is long, and I must continue to take each day as it comes,” as she declared herself cancer-free.
Sources:
- Sky News
- Getty Images
- Mayo Clinic
- Good Morning Britain
