By Katherine Tinsley
11:44am PST, Dec 18, 2025
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Before revealing her condition, Kate Middleton was publicly criticized for being absent from certain events. After months of controversy and conspiracy theories spreading online, the Princess of Wales announced she had cancer.
"This is someone who stared down the abyss. She didn't just face a life- threatening illness — the global Internet went after her. It was a character assassination," royal historian
Amanda Foreman told
People.
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"She has that steeliness and that tremendous charm and that smile," Amanda Foreman continued. "It's the combination of a willingness to show vulnerability but at the same time not being vulnerable."
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Once Kate Middleton returned to the spotlight, her demeanor changed.
"She is in this confident phase where she is able to define who she is, what she does, and how much she does," Amanda Foreman said. "In that sense, she's approaching her prime. Kate looks like our idea of a future queen."
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Kate Middleton, who is now in remission, has been transparent about the challenges she's faced in the last few years.
"As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal. I am, however, looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead," the princess wrote in a social media post.
