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.”
