As Kate Middleton continues to recover after her cancer diagnosis, she is also looking ahead at becoming Queen sooner than expected. The Princess of Wales just wrapped up her biggest public outing since completing chemotherapy in September—her annual Christmas carol service on Dec.

Princess Catherine spoke about her “unplanned” year, while Sally Bedell Smith says King Charles’s health has prompted the couple to consider their future reign.

After completing chemotherapy, the Princess of Wales is navigating the expectations tied to her future role as Queen

As King Charles, at 76 and battling cancer, faces an uncertain future, there is an increasing sense that Prince William and Kate Middleton's ascension to the throne may come "sooner than they would have expected.

The Princess of Wales returned to her royal responsibilities in September following the conclusion of her cancer treatment

Kate Middleton and Prince William are adjusting to their future roles as King and Queen amid personal challenges.

Katie Nicholl - who works as Vanity Fair's resident royal expert - told The Sun that she can see the Princess seeking 'reconciliation in some form', despite Harry having 'said hurtful things about her', and 'brought the children into the narrative'.

The Princess of Wales is steering her future role as a Queen after her chemotherapy. Kate Middleton is moving forward navigating a new reality after ending up the year with her heartwarming Christmas carol service.