King Charles III was briefly hospitalized on Thursday after experiencing temporary side effects related to his ongoing cancer treatment, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.
The 76-year-old monarch has since returned to Clarence House, where he continues to attend to state papers and make calls from his study.
Following medical advice, the King has canceled a planned tour of Birmingham, which was scheduled for Friday. The visit would have included four engagements, but palace officials indicated that Charles was disappointed to miss the opportunity. A spokesperson stated that the King hopes to reschedule the visit at a later date.
This marks the first significant disruption to the King’s public duties since the palace announced his cancer diagnosis in February 2024. A palace source described the episode as a “most minor bump in a road that is very much heading in the right direction.” The palace did not specify the nature of the side effects experienced by the King.
Meetings with three ambassadors, also scheduled for Thursday, were affected. Meanwhile, Queen Camilla continued with her engagements, attending a reception in Wembley, north London, and did not accompany the King to the hospital.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer extended his best wishes to the monarch following the palace’s announcement, while royal commentators emphasized that the King remains in good spirits. Robert Hardman, an author of several books about the royal family, said the King’s unwavering commitment to public duties has made many “forget” about his health condition.
Despite ongoing treatment, King Charles has shown little sign of slowing down. He recently completed a trip to Northern Ireland, launched a playlist of his favorite music, and attended the Commonwealth Day service, having missed it last year following his diagnosis. His presence at major state functions has reinforced the perception that he remains resilient and dedicated to his role.
Royal experts noted that the King’s active schedule and positive public presence have helped mitigate concerns about his health. Nonetheless, Thursday’s brief hospitalization served as a reminder that he continues to receive cancer treatment.
The King’s recent engagements have also included global diplomacy efforts, notably inviting former U.S. President Donald Trump for a second state visit and extending solidarity to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following a controversial meeting between Trump and Zelensky at the White House.
The King’s upcoming state visit to Italy is still scheduled for April, although some adjustments have been made to accommodate the health of Pope Francis. The palace remains optimistic about the King’s ability to resume his full schedule in the coming week.
Although Buckingham Palace has not disclosed the type of cancer affecting the King, his determination to fulfill public duties has remained evident. He returned to public life last April following a period of treatment and recuperation, displaying a commitment to his royal responsibilities despite his health challenges.
