A 'Gift to Conspiracy Theorists': Monarchy Warned to Be 'Open' About Prince William Event Cancelation to Ease Concerns

Due to numerous royal health scares recently, Prince William's canceled appearance at King Constantine's funeral has become "a gift for conspiracy theorists."

"I'm afraid that if no reason for Prince William pulling out at the last minute is given, there will inevitably be speculation, some of it wild and unfair, but that is the nature of social media these days," royal expert Phil Dampier told an outlet.

"There were lurid reports in a Greek publication the other day about Kate's health, for which there is no evidence, but these rumors get circulated around the world quickly," he added. "The palace made it clear Kate is recovering well, and we saw the King return to London from Windsor, possibly for treatment. But we still don't know what urgent personal reason led William to cancel. I think he should be more open if the palace wants to avoid speculation."

Queen Camilla was the main representative at the funeral due to King Charles receiving treatments for cancer. Her Majesty also sent headlines buzzing when she was filmed wiping what appeared to be tears from her eyes on multiple occasions. Numerous analysts felt that the tears "were likely for her husband and perhaps even her stepdaughter-in-law." The King has not been seen in public in weeks, and the Princess of Wales was last seen on Christmas Day, 2023.

"William would have known that his unexplained absence would make world headlines, despite sources assuring the media that it was not related to Catherine's health," royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams shared. The palace has subsequently been silent so speculation continues. The royal family obviously have a right to privacy, how far that right is exercised is what has always been debated."

He continued: "The absence of clarification when the unexpected occurs is a gift to conspiracy theorists. And clearly, this is a time where the royal family — only four of whose working members are under 70 — is under enormous pressure."

"I think if he’d pulled out a week or so in advance, with something unavoidable, that would be a different kettle of fish," Broadcaster Tom Harwood stated when the news broke. "It's very last minute, and usually perhaps for this royal family, which has been more open about a lot of the issues it’s facing. In previous decades, the royal family has been a lot more closed, but we’re not getting any information about this."

While details regarding William's absence remain disclosed, a source close to the Wales household confirmed to a news publication: "The Princess of Wales continues to be doing well." Some analysts claim the sudden news could have been due to "a severe change" in King Charles' health.

Daily Mail reported on the expert opinions.