King Charles III briefly stayed in the hospital on Thursday after experiencing temporary side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment, Buckingham Palace has announced. However, the palace emphasized that this was a minor setback, and the King has since returned to Clarence House, where he continues to fulfill his duties.
The 76-year-old monarch had planned to visit Birmingham on Friday for a series of engagements but has now postponed the trip on medical advice. He was scheduled to attend four public events, but the palace assured that these would be rescheduled at a later date. A palace spokesperson noted that King Charles was “greatly disappointed” to miss the engagements and extended his apologies to those involved in organizing the visit.
While specific details regarding the side effects were not disclosed, a palace source described the development as a “minor bump in a road that is very much heading in the right direction.” The King remains engaged with his state responsibilities, reviewing official papers and making calls from his study.
The palace’s approach to handling the situation reflects a commitment to transparency, addressing concerns preemptively rather than allowing speculation. Notably, there was no emergency response; the King was taken to the London Clinic in a car rather than an ambulance, reinforcing the message that his condition remains stable.
Queen Camilla did not accompany the King to the hospital, instead attending a reception in Wembley, north London. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer conveyed his best wishes, underscoring the nation’s support for the monarch during his treatment.
Despite his diagnosis, King Charles has remained active in public life. He has attended key diplomatic events, including meetings with foreign leaders, and has continued to champion cultural and charitable causes. Recently, he welcomed Mark Carney, Canada’s new Prime Minister, and expressed solidarity with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky.
While acknowledging that future health challenges may arise, Buckingham Palace maintains an optimistic outlook. The King is expected to resume his full schedule next week, and his wider state visit to Italy in April will proceed with some modifications.
The palace has not disclosed details of the specific type of cancer affecting the King, but he resumed public duties last April after a period of treatment and recuperation.
