The Princess of Wales has helped keep the Royal Family steady during a turbulent 12 months, according to royal authors, with her cancer diagnosis making the family "appreciate her more than they've ever done before".
Despite being diagnosed with cancer in March 2024, Princess Catherine has continued to act as the rock for her family and steady the ship in turbulent waters. It was confirmed in January 2025 that she was in remission, and she has since gradually returned to her royal duties and public life while continuing to focus on her long-term recovery.
Family's appreciation after diagnosis
Royal author Ingrid Seward said the family "appreciate her more than they've ever done before" following her diagnosis. As reported by Hello! Magazine, Seward said: "What Catherine brings is steadiness. She will be the lynchpin that keeps the royal family together going forward. She keeps William together.
"Her cancer absolutely rocked him and the thought of losing her was just unbearable. I think that has really cemented their togetherness."
Robert Jobson, the author of Catherine, the Princess of Wales, added: "Her star has only risen since that moment. People appreciate her more than they've ever done before. I think she's probably more popular than ever, really."
Challenging year for the monarchy
It has been a tough year for the Royal Family, starting with the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office, which some commentators have labelled as the monarchy's worst crisis in 90 years.
More recently, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned to the UK since spending six years in California. Their return has split opinion, with Buckingham Palace reiterating that the couple will not be working royals and remain "private citizens".
Last week, Earl Spencer released his new book, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, which reopened family wounds and made aggressive allegations against King Charles. The Palace has since taken the rare stance of releasing a statement in response to the claims, implying that Diana's brother's grief was impacting his memory.
Princess Catherine's crucial role
Despite all the turmoil, Princess Catherine has remained a steady presence above the fray. Royal insiders say she has played a crucial role in supporting not only her husband but the wider royal family through some of their most challenging times.
Jobson continued: "The glamour is all part of being a princess and her presence in helping to steer the royal family through a challenging time is essential. She really is the jewel in the crown and I think she's embracing it all rather than just doing it because she has to.
"She'll want to protect William but also the birthright of her son. She and William are the conduit figures of making sure that the modern monarchy is really something that's relevant going forward. She really will play a crucial role."
