On January 17, 2024 Kensington Palace announced that Kate Middleton had a planned abdominal surgery. It went well but Kate remained in the hospital for 13 days to recover. It was “her wish that her personal medical information remains private” for the sake of her kids. She is expected to return to public duties after Easter.
On Tuesday, March 5, 2024, the official British army website listed two events that Kate will be attending. This might be a hint at her return to work. Kate is the honorary colonel of the Irish Guards so that title comes with some responsibilities. The following day, Kate’s name was removed from the site.
Trooping the Colour is set to take place on June 18, 2024. This event celebrates King Charles’ birthday. Number 9 Company of the Irish Guards will lead the parade, which means the weekend before Kate would traditionally conduct the Colonel's Review. King Charles has also stepped back from public-facing royal duties as he undergoes treatment for cancer, but is currently scheduled to appear at the event.
While internet sleuths believe this is a signal of Kate’s return to public life, it is important to remember that the army does not control her schedule. It is the job of Kensington Palace to confirm all public appearances. It has not done so at this time and Kate is no longer listed on the army’s website
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Historically Kate has attended Trooping the Colour every year since marrying into the royal family. The only exception was in 2020 when things were scaled down to a carriage ride and balcony appearance because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is the first year she is in charge of the Colonel's Review.
