Kate Middleton and Prince William have shared their Christmas greetings following a challenging year for their family. On December 19, the royal couple, aged 42, revealed their 2024 holiday card, which featured a still from a video released by Princess Kate on September 9 to announce the completion of her chemotherapy treatment. The card depicted Princess Kate and Prince William seated with their children – Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6 – all linked together. This image was taken from a video captured by Will Warr in August at their Norfolk country home, where they are currently spending Christmas.
The card included a message that read, “Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year,” and was shared on the couple’s social media platforms in a video. The card was displayed on a table in the video, with a twinkling Christmas tree in the background and faux snow falling gently around it.
This year, the couple chose to use a previously seen family photo for their Christmas card, a departure from their usual practice of sharing new images. Prince William and Princess Kate were most recently seen with their children at Princess Kate’s Together at Christmas carol service held at Westminster Abbey on December 6, marking the children’s first public appearance in six months.
Sophie Mirman, founder of Trotters, the brand behind Princess Charlotte’s coat, commented on the family’s appearance, saying, “It’s been such a difficult year for them, it’s wonderful to see them all together.” While the royal children are not frequently seen in public, as Prince William and Princess Kate prioritize giving them a normal upbringing with minimal spotlight, their appearance at the carol service was a significant moment.
Earlier in the year, Princess Kate had announced that she was undergoing treatment for cancer, following planned abdominal surgery in January. She completed her chemotherapy treatment in September and has since been focusing on her health. The Together at Christmas carol service was a notable event for Princess Kate following her treatment, where she shared personal reflections with performers in attendance.
Friends and sources close to Princess Kate note that her recent experiences have shifted her perspective, both in her personal life and in her royal duties.
Royal expert Sally Bedell Smith shares insight into the decision-making process behind the Duchess of Cambridge’s return to public life, emphasizing that she is taking control and doing what is best for her. A source close to the royal family underscores the impact of life-threatening illnesses on one’s priorities, highlighting the unwavering importance of family for both the Duchess and Prince William. As the couple navigates through challenging times, their devotion to their family remains steadfast, guiding their choices and actions.
The image of togetherness and familial bond shines through in a heartwarming photograph of Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, and Kate Middleton at the Together at Christmas concert on December 6, 2024. This snapshot captures a moment of joy and unity, symbolizing the strength of their connection and the values they hold dear. The royal family’s unwavering commitment to each other is evident in their shared experiences and cherished traditions.
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Looking ahead to the holiday season, anticipation mounts as the Prince and Princess of Wales, accompanied by their children, prepare to celebrate Christmas at Sandringham in the company of King Charles. This upcoming gathering holds special significance amid the King’s ongoing battle with cancer, a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the royal family. Prince William candidly acknowledges the emotional toll of the past year, emphasizing the personal struggles they have encountered and the resilience required to navigate through adversity.
As the festive season approaches, the royal family eagerly anticipates partaking in cherished Christmas traditions and engaging in the annual walk to and from church, a symbolic gesture of unity and faith. Despite their absence from King Charles’ Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace on December 19, Prince William and Princess Kate eagerly look forward to reuniting with loved ones at Sandringham, embracing the joy and togetherness that define this time of year for them.
Delving into the rich tapestry of royal holiday customs, PEOPLE’s Special Edition: Christmas at the Palace: A Royal Family Album offers a glimpse into the timeless traditions and heartfelt moments that characterize the royal family’s festive celebrations. Through captivating stories and stunning visuals, readers are transported into a world of opulence, tradition, and familial bonds that define the essence of royalty.
Intriguing insights into the inner workings of the royal family shed light on the complexities of their lives, balancing public obligations with personal challenges and emotional upheavals. The Duchess of Cambridge’s deliberate approach to her public engagements reflects a sense of agency and autonomy, as she navigates the demands of royal life while prioritizing her well-being and family commitments.
The enduring
