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Royal Family Shares Striking Portrait of King Charles with Major Health Update

The photo was taken in September 2023

King Charles Smiling Navy Blue Suit Christmas CAT2
Victoria Jones - Pool/Getty Images

Just yesterday, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles is undergoing treatment after being diagnosed with cancer. Along with the official statement shared on social media was a striking new portrait of the monarch, 75, wearing his go-to attire, a navy blue suit.

According to People, the portrait (below) appears to have been taken during the king’s state visit to France in September 2023. Snapped by royal photographer Samir Hussein, the striking photo shows His Majesty standing in an open doorway donning a subtle smile. In the background, a large chandelier hangs from the ceiling.

The palace detailed the king’s cancer diagnosis in the caption, writing, “During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.”

Though the monarch’s team didn’t specify the type of cancer he has been diagnosed with, the palace shared that he will not participate in any public engagements during his medical treatments. However, the statement continued, “Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.”

Furthermore, the statement revealed how “grateful” the king is for the medical staff and doctors in charge of his treatment. “The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure,” the statement read. “He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”

This latest health update comes just days after the king was discharged from a hospital in London following his treatment for his enlarged prostate, which was revealed in a statement released by Buckingham Palace on January 17. 

Wishing you a speedy recovery, King Charles.


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