King Charles, Feeling “Positive and Upbeat,” Is Sharing a Rare Personal Message About His Cancer Diagnosis

On Friday night, the UK’s Channel 4 will broadcast a rare personal message from King Charles III, where will discuss his cancer journey.

The video was recorded during the last week of November in the Morning Room at Clarence House. In a statement, Buckingham Palace said that the king will talk about his own experience with a cancer diagnosis. “In his message, the king will stress the importance of cancer screening programs in enabling early diagnosis and will reflect on his own recovery journey,” it added.

The king recorded the message for Stand Up To Cancer 2025, a campaign fronted by Cancer Research UK. His Majesty’s message is set to air shortly before a unique live broadcast from a cancer clinic at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, presented by host Davina McCall. The palace said the king was keen to support the campaign, which “aims to drive awareness of the importance of early diagnosis, raises funding for cancer research and supports all those affected by the illness.”

After his cancer diagnosis in February 2024, King Charles has consistently shared details about his experience. He has said he is committed to driving awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and raising funding for cancer research, and in April 2024, he became a patron of Cancer Research UK, the country’s largest cancer research charity.

When Charles underwent treatment for an enlarged prostate last year, he made a point of going public with his medical condition. Along with daughter-in-law Kate Middleton’s disclosure about her surgery and cancer diagnosis, it marked a new era of transparency around the royals and their private health matters. Following the king’s announcement, the NHS was inundated with calls from men asking for check-ups. The king is said to support expanded national screening programs in order to diagnose cancers earlier and improve survival rates.

He recently hosted a Clarence House reception for cancer charities and organizations around the country, including Maggie’s, which provides support for patients and their families. The king has also visited cancer patients at hospitals around the country and spoken candidly about his treatment and the side effects.

While the king has not disclosed the type of cancer he has, Buckingham Palace has confirmed it is not prostate cancer. “The king did not want to specify the cancer he has because he does not want the spotlight to be on his cancer,” a source told Vanity Fair. “He wants to raise awareness for all cancers. This is work he is absolutely passionate about and very committed to.”

In December 2024, royal sources said that the king’s cancer was “a managed condition,” and unlike the Princess of Wales, he has not made any statements about entering remission. During his treatment the King has continued to carry out all of his duties as head of state, including overseas tours and hosting state visits. Friends of the monarch say he remains “positive and upbeat” about his future and is in good spirits and health. One friend said, “I spoke to him recently, and he is on wonderful form and looking forward to Christmas.”