The monarch’s battle with illness and rising public scrutiny leaves him reassessing his duties as pressure mounts within the royal family.
King Charles is reportedly weighing his next steps following a heckling incident that shook him during a recent public appearance outside Lichfield Cathedral. The event comes as the King continues to receive weekly treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer, and sources say the ongoing stress is beginning to take a toll.
The outburst occurred only days after Prince Andrew’s announcement on October 17 that he would give up his royal titles and honours. Despite that decision, the royal family continues to face backlash over the allegations linked to the disgraced royal. For Charles, the encounter was a harsh reminder of how fragile public support can be.
According to journalist Rob Shuter, the incident “pierced the royal bubble,” leaving a lasting effect on the King. A palace source claimed that Charles is deeply unsettled, describing him as “terrified” that the heckling may mark the start of a broader public backlash. “Charles has spent his entire life preparing to be King — not to be shouted at in the streets like a politician,” the insider said. “People used to cry ‘God Save the King,’ but now they’re shouting about Andrew — and no one’s stepping in.”
Having lived with cancer for nearly two years, the monarch reportedly finds the idea of returning to more public duties overwhelming. The ongoing controversy surrounding his brother has only compounded the strain. “The King is utterly worn down by it,” the source added. “Just when he thinks the matter has settled, something else comes up. He’s trying to focus on his health and royal responsibilities, but the constant pressure is taking its toll.”
