King Charles of Britain appeared in public for the first time since being diagnosed with cancer. He greeted supporters while walking around unexpectedly after attending an Easter church service in Windsor.
Accompanied by Queen Camilla, he shook hands with many people outside St George’s Chapel, where his late mother, Queen Elizabeth, is buried.
Since his cancer diagnosis was announced, King Charles had postponed all previous public appearances. His attendance at the church service was a significant moment. The cancer was discovered during tests after a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate in January.
While King Charles was at church, his son Prince William and his family were not present. Earlier this month, William’s wife, Kate, disclosed that she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after cancer was detected following abdominal surgery in January.
The King and Queen arrived at the chapel in a car from Windsor Castle, with King Charles in a dark overcoat and Queen Camilla in a green coat dress adorned with an emerald and diamond brooch that belonged to the late Queen.
Despite the cold weather, well-wishers expressed their support for King Charles, some wishing him good health and others exchanging Easter greetings. One attendee mentioned that the King looked “very well.”
Buckingham Palace has not confirmed any future public events for the King, but his willingness to interact with the public on Sunday provides hope regarding his health.
In addition to the King and Queen, other members of the royal family attended the Easter service, including the King’s sister, the Princess Royal, and brother, the Duke of Edinburgh. The Duke of York, who had been withdrawn from royal duties in 2022 due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein, was also present.
Despite health challenges, King Charles has continued fulfilling non-public state duties, engaging with foreign officials, and holding regular meetings with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
His absence from the Maundy Thursday service was noted with an audio message expressing regret and extending Easter wishes to the public.