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Keep Calm and Carry On: Princess Diana Biographer Says Queen Elizabeth Would Admire Prince William's Grace Under Fire in 'Brutal Year'

Diana, Princess of Wales' biographer said the late Queen Elizabeth II would likely applaud Prince William's ability to 'keep calm and carry on' amid his 'brutal' 2024.

Throughout this year, Prince William, 42, has exemplified resilience and dedication, navigating the dual cancer diagnoses of his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, 42, and his father, King Charles III, 76.

Now, renowned royal biographer Andrew Morton, 71, famed for his work on Princess Diana's autobiography, asserts that the late Queen Elizabeth II would be immensely proud of how William has managed these adversities.

Morton remarked, "I don’t envy his role at the moment — he’s got a lot on his plate," highlighting the immense pressures William faces. "But William is handling it as well as you can do when you’ve got a wife who has been seriously ill and three children who need support and comfort."

This sentiment underscores what numerous royal analysts have said about the future king's unwavering commitment to his family amidst the turmoil.

Reflecting on Elizabeth II's steadfast philosophy that "the show has to go on," Morton noted that William has embodied this principle by maintaining his royal duties despite personal hardships.

He observed, "William has undertaken as many official engagements as he can. But it requires a lot of maturity, common sense, and a sense of duty to carry on."

This balance between personal tribulations and public responsibilities mirrors the late Queen's approach during challenging times, specifically her "Annus horribilis" in 1992.

The heir to the throne himself has candidly described 2024 as "probably been the hardest year in my life," acknowledging the emotional toll it has taken. He expressed pride in his family's resilience, stating, "I’m so proud of my wife, I’m proud of my father, for handling the things that they have done."

These remarks offer a glimpse into the personal strength and unity within the royal family during this tumultuous period. Although the Princess of Wales is now cancer-free, the King is still battling the disease.

The Prince of Wales is expected to mirror the reign of his revered grandmother when he becomes King.

"I think the Queen prepared him a lot," veteran royal expert Hugo Vickers told a publication. "William has said over the years that he had the chance to watch her at work and follow her example, and that’s one of the great advantages of a hereditary monarchy."

"They are trained from day one, and they can observe things, see how things are done, and absorb things gradually, which is very important," the royal commentator said.

Each reigning monarch typically trains their heir in what will be expected of them when they ascend the throne at a future date. Elizabeth II frequently showed then-Prince Charles the daily red boxes of state papers she had to read and sign each day, just as her father, King George VI, used to do with her.

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People reported on Morton's comments.