King Charles of Britain made his first public appearance since his cancer diagnosis, greeting well-wishers during an impromptu walkabout after attending an Easter church service in Windsor.
Accompanied by Queen Camilla, he shook hands with numerous people outside St George’s Chapel, where his late mother, Queen Elizabeth, rests.
Having postponed all previous public engagements since the announcement of his cancer diagnosis, the King’s attendance at the church service marked a significant moment. The cancer was discovered during tests following a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate in January.
While King Charles attended church, his son Prince William and his family were absent. Earlier this month, William’s wife, Kate, revealed she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after cancer was found following abdominal surgery in January.
Donned in a dark overcoat, the King and Queen waved to onlookers as they arrived at the chapel by car from Windsor Castle. Queen Camilla wore a green coat dress paired with an emerald and diamond brooch belonging to the late Queen.
Despite the chilly weather, well-wishers expressed their support for King Charles, with some wishing him good health and others exchanging Easter greetings. One attendee remarked that the King appeared “very well.”
While Buckingham Palace has not confirmed any future public engagements for the King, his willingness to interact with the public on Sunday offers 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 was sidelined 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, maintaining engagements with foreign officials, and holding regular meetings with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
His absence from the Maundy Thursday service was marked by an audio message expressing his regret and extending Easter wishes to the public.
