King Charles is facing mounting calls to step back from what critics are calling the “boring” aspects of royal life, as concerns grow over his ability to maintain a full schedule amid his ongoing cancer treatment. The pressure comes after reports that the King experienced side effects during his weekly treatment last Thursday, raising fresh questions about his long-term capacity to rule.
According to GB News, Charles encountered temporary health setbacks, prompting some royal experts to suggest that he should prioritize his well-being over ceremonial duties. Among them is royal commentator Ingrid Seward, who believes the King should delegate the more mundane responsibilities to other working royals.
“The trouble is, he’s been so conditioned to work that I don’t think he functions unless he’s working,” Seward explained. “When he’s not working, he’s probably a bit all over the place. He’s always working, and it’s just not his nature to take an afternoon nap.”
Despite his dedication, the King’s relentless schedule may not be sustainable. Cancer treatment is known to cause extreme fatigue, which could make carrying out lengthy ceremonies and public engagements particularly exhausting for the monarch.
Seward specifically suggested that Charles could step back from the traditional investiture ceremonies—where royals award knighthoods and other honors—passing them on to other family members instead. “He could just step back from the investitures,” she said. “I think that would be a good idea. There’s the Princess Royal [Anne], Prince Edward—there’s no reason they couldn’t do it.”
Her remarks echo growing public sentiment that Charles should focus on the more meaningful and engaging aspects of his reign while leaving the tedious formalities to other royals. Given the King’s lifelong commitment to duty, however, stepping away may not be an easy decision.
Throughout his first year on the throne, Charles has maintained a rigorous schedule, determined to prove his strength and resilience despite his diagnosis. Yet, with his recent health challenges, even the most devoted supporters acknowledge that his workload may need to be reassessed.
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His upcoming state visit to Italy, set to begin on April 7, is seen as a test of his endurance. Charles has reportedly spent Friday preparing for the trip, signaling his intent to continue fulfilling his responsibilities, even as his health remains a concern.
Many believe that rather than completely stepping back, Charles should focus on engagements that align with his passions—such as environmental advocacy, interfaith relations, and cultural initiatives—while leaving the more repetitive duties to others.
The idea of shifting responsibilities is not unprecedented. Queen Elizabeth II gradually delegated more tasks to Prince Charles in her later years, and now, some royal watchers argue that Charles should do the same for Prince William and other senior royals.
However, there is also speculation that Charles may resist any attempt to reduce his workload. His reputation as a workaholic is well-known, and insiders claim that the King finds purpose in staying busy. “How boring must that be?” Seward remarked about his current duties, suggesting that he may struggle with slowing down.
Still, the reality of his condition cannot be ignored. If the King’s health continues to fluctuate, Buckingham Palace may have no choice but to make adjustments to his schedule. Whether Charles willingly agrees to step back or is forced to do so by circumstance remains to be seen.
For now, all eyes are on his Italian state visit, where his ability to manage the demands of international diplomacy while undergoing treatment will be closely watched. If he can maintain his pace, critics may be silenced. But if exhaustion takes its toll, the conversation about redistributing royal duties will only intensify.
