The Important Events Kate Will Miss as She Recovers from Surgery

By: Sam Watanuki | Published: Feb 07, 2024

Kate Middleton’s journey to recovery following her abdominal surgery marks a significant moment in the royal calendar.

With an extended recuperation expected to last beyond Easter, the Princess of Wales will be noticeably absent from several high-profile royal engagements.

The BAFTAs Without Kate

One of the most glamorous nights missing Kate’s presence will be the BAFTA Film Awards. As a highlight in her annual royal engagements, Kate’s absence will be particularly felt on the red carpet, where she has consistently dazzled alongside Prince William, the president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

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Catherine, Princess of Wales, attends the EE BAFTA Film Awards 2023 at The Royal Festival Hall on February 19, 2023 in London, England.

Source: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Their joint appearances have been a staple, offering moments of royal glamour and significant support for the arts. This year, however, will see a deviation from this tradition, leaving royal fashion watchers eagerly anticipating her return.

St. David's Day Parade: A Missed Tradition

St. David’s Day holds a special place in the royal calendar, especially for Kate, who has embraced the event with enthusiasm in recent years. As the Princess of Wales, her participation in the Welsh Guards regiment parade showcases the deep connection between the royal family and the military.

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Catherine, Princess of Wales meets with well-wishers as she visits St Davids Cathedral for a service to commemorate the first anniversary of the death of Queen Elizabeth II, on September 08, 2023 in St Davids, United Kingdom.

Source: Karwai Tang/WireImage

Her absence from this year’s celebration will not only be a missed opportunity for her to honor Wales’ national day but also a break in tradition that many look forward to.

Commonwealth Day Service Without Kate

Commonwealth Day, a key event in the royal family’s schedule, will feel the absence of Kate’s poised and elegant presence this year. The service at Westminster Abbey, attended by members of the royal family, celebrates the unity and diversity of the Commonwealth nations.

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atherine, Princess of Wales attends the 2023 Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey on March 13, 2023 in London, England.

Source: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Kate’s participation in past years has been a highlight, offering moments of royal solidarity and fashion.

St. Patrick's Day: A Tradition Paused

As the newly appointed colonel of the Irish Guards, Kate’s absence at the St. Patrick’s Day parade will be keenly felt. This event, which she has attended with dedication, symbolizes the close relationship between the regiment and the royal family.

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Catherine, Princess of Wales at the trophy presentations after the Gentlemen's Singles Final match

Source: Tim Clayton/Corbis/Getty Images

Kate’s role in pinning shamrocks to the soldiers’ tunics has become a cherished tradition, one that celebrates not only the regiment’s valor but also the cultural ties between the U.K. and Ireland. This year, the absence of her vibrant green attire and warm interactions will leave a noticeable gap in the celebrations.

Royal Easter Sunday: A Family Event Missed

The Royal Easter Sunday service at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor is a family affair that traditionally brings together senior members of the royal family. This year, however, will be different.

Kate Middleton smiling

Source: Alexander Koerner/Getty Images

Kate’s recovery means she’ll miss this significant religious celebration, an event that often provides the public with a rare glimpse of the royal family in a more intimate setting.

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Public Response and Support

The news of Kate’s surgery and subsequent recovery period has been met with an outpouring of public support. This wave of sympathy reflects the deep affection and respect many hold for the duchess.

In this photo illustration, A selection of front pages from UK daily national newspaper coverage of King Charles and Kate’s recent health concerns

Source: Ming Yeung/Getty Images

The public’s understanding and well-wishes highlight a collective hope for her swift and smooth recovery.

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Missing Major Events: A Royal Adjustment

The absence of key royals from major events is not just a matter of personal health but also a significant adjustment for the royal family’s public engagements.

Queen Camilla, King Charles III, Prince William, Prince of Wales, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, pose for a photograph

Source: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Each event missed by Kate, Charles, and William represents a departure from tradition and an opportunity for other royals to step into the spotlight.

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Queen Camilla Steps Up

With the temporary step back of key members of the royal family, Queen Camilla’s role has come into sharper focus. As senior royals recover, she is stepping up to fill the void, demonstrating the royal family’s ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

Queen Camilla speaking at a podium

Source: Getty Images

Her increased visibility at upcoming events not only highlights her commitment to her royal duties but also her capacity to support the monarchy during times of need. This period is an opportunity for Queen Camilla to engage with the public in a more prominent role, reinforcing the depth and versatility of the royal family.

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Speculating Kate's Return

As the royal family and its supporters look forward to Kate’s return to public engagements, speculation abounds about when and where she will make her first appearance.

Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, attends the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church

Source: Stephen Pond/Getty Images

Considering the three-month recovery timeline, it’s possible her return could coincide with a significant summer event, offering a platform for her to ease back into public life with a renewed focus on her charitable work and public duties.

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The Road to Recovery: What Comes Next?

Kate’s recovery process is a reminder of the human aspect behind royal duties. The careful management of her return to public life will be crucial, balancing her health with the demands of her role.

Catherine, Princess of Wales and Mia Tindall greet well-wishers after attending the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2023 in Sandringham, Norfolk.

Source: Stephen Pond/Getty Images

This time of recovery is a chance to think about how important health and well-being are, not just for the royals but for everyone who admires them.

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A Royal Resurgence

Looking ahead, the return of Kate, Charles, and William to full public duties is eagerly anticipated. Their comeback is expected to be marked by renewed vigor and a deepened connection with the public.

Catherine, Princess of Wales (in her role as Patron) visits the Foundling Museum

Source: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

The anticipation for their return speaks volumes about their place in the heart of the nation and the world at large.

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