Kate Middleton News: Princess of Wales and Prince William happy to show public displays of affection now for one reason

The Prince and Princess of Wales are “happy for people to see them be touchy-feely” according to a royal expert who explains the royal couple are “in a different phase of their life now”.

Author Ingrid Seward spoke with People about Catherine’s return to the spotlight following her cancer diagnosis and treatment – and how she’s changed how she conducts her public appearances as a result.

“They’re in a different phase of their life now,” Seward explained.

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“William is very protective and very proud of her for coming through this and carrying on with her life,” she said.

It was in January 2024 when the world was shocked to hear the Princess of Wales would temporarily step back from royal duties to undergo “planned abdominal surgery”.

Soon after, royal followers were given the sad news that Kate, 43, was battling an undisclosed form of cancer. King Charles III was also facing a cancer battle following a “corrective procedure” for an enlarged prostate.

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This marked the start of a difficult year for the British royal family, one during which Prince William, 42, was left caring for his father, wife and their three children – Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six.

In a video released on March 22, 2024, Catherine said having “William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too”.

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All the defining photos of the British royal family in 2025

William and Queen Camilla undertook a number of solo royal engagements as their respective spouses underwent treatment.

The news that Catherine has completed her cancer treatment came at the end of 2025 and since then the Princess of Wales are resumed royal duties, much to the delight of all.

Since her health battle, the Prince and Princess of Wales have shared a number of intimate moments in videos and social media posts, including a romantic Valentine’s Day post where they were photographed holding hands during a trip to Wales.

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The royal couple seem closer than ever at joint appearances, sharing intimate conversations, smiles and laughter throughout.

William and Catherine were seen laughing and smiling during Commonwealth Day service and while watching Wales take on England in rugby on March 15.

Next, the Prince and Princess of Wales will travel to Estonia on March 20 and March 21 in support of British troops stationed at the frontline of NATO’s defense against Russia, The Telegraph reports.

The last time William and Catherine traveled overseas together in an official capacity was to Jordan in early June 2023, when they attended the Jordanian royal wedding.

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