Prince William may have to take on more royal responsibilities in the future, even though his father, King Charles, is known for his “strong work ethic.”

King Charles, now 76, became monarch in September 2022 after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for 70 years.

Last year, the king was diagnosed with cancer and temporarily stepped back from some of his duties to focus on treatment. Since then, he has been balancing royal commitments with ongoing medical care, including a few overseas trips.

However, a former royal staffer suggests that as the king continues to age, his workload might shift — potentially leading to Prince William stepping up even more.

Prince William Likely to Take on More Royal Duties as King Charles Ages

Jack Stooks, who once served as King Charles’s senior gardener at Highgrove, has spoken about potential changes in the royal workload.

This comes as King Charles and Queen Camilla head to Canada for a short two-day trip. While there, the King will officially open Canada’s Parliament — something a monarch has only done once before, when Queen Elizabeth II did it back in 1957.

Speaking on behalf of Genting Casino, Jack said: “Charles is known for his strong work ethic and dedication to royal responsibilities. He regularly travels for royal engagements. Queen Camilla isn’t too fond of flying, but once they arrive, they tend to settle in comfortably.

“Their recent visit to Italy showed them laughing and enjoying time together. Travelling clearly keeps their spirits up. Still, as Charles continues to age, he may gradually start to slow down, just as the late Queen did.

“In time, Prince William is expected to step up and take on more.”

Will King Charles Step Down?

Following King Charles’ cancer diagnosis last year, Prince William has taken on more royal duties as he prepares for his future as king.

This has led some to question whether Charles might abdicate and pass the crown to his son.

However, Grant Harrold — who worked as Charles’ butler from 2004 to 2011 — says that stepping down isn’t something the King would ever consider.

As he ages, Charles might slow down, similar to what the late Queen did in her later years.

Speaking to Prime Casino, Harrold explained: “Abdication? No. Just like his mother, he’ll continue to serve until his final breath. That sense of duty is ingrained in him – it’s who he is.

No one knows exactly what the King is thinking, but based on what I saw — and I doubt that’s changed — abdication would be the last thing on his mind. It’s simply not in his nature.”

King Charles Has Made Plans in Case He’s Unable to Fulfill Royal Duties

It appears King Charles has prepared for a time when he might not be able to carry out his royal responsibilities.

Grant explained: “Charles has already put things in place in case he is in a position where he is unable to carry out duties himself. He’s appointed Princess Anne, Prince Edward, Queen Camilla, and I believe Sophie as Counsellors of State.”

These Counsellors can step in and handle official duties on the king’s behalf if needed.