The family dynamic appears to have shifted between King Charles and his son Prince William over the past year amid a tense power struggle.
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While life has been difficult for the Prince of Wales as his wife, Catharine, and 76-year-old father were both diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and have undergone treatments, William has worked hard to keep everything in order and on track.
And that includes preparing for the 42-year-old heir’s eventual succession to the throne – especially in a case of unforeseen circumstances.
However, it appears the dynamics in the relationship between father and son have shifted.
“It’s a sensitive topic, and there’s occasional tension,” one source told US Weekly recently.
For William, he “is preparing behind the scenes for when his ascension happens,” a second source said. “Like his father, he takes being a success in the royal role very seriously.”
After ascending the throne following Queen Elizabeth’s death in September 2022, King Charles is not letting the disease interfere with his royal duties.
“Charles has wanted to be the monarch for decades,” added the second source. “Even though he’s battling cancer, he’s not letting that get in the way of his desire to be successful on the throne or a dynamic leader.”
But that is not stopping the planning around Prince William’s eventual succession, which began once King Charles was coronated in May 2023.
The first source said William is likely being briefed on important matters, whether it be government relations and state affairs, while also preparing for transitioning titles and responsibilities.
“The royal household is refining protocols and communications strategies for a smooth transition,” the source said.
In an interview while in South Africa earlier this month, William said he is looking to put his stamp on the British monarchy.
“I’m trying to do it differently, and I’m trying to do it for my generation,” he said. “To give you more (of) an understanding around it, I’m doing it with maybe a smaller ‘R’ in the royal.”
One source said William will bring a “new, younger energy” to the Crown.
“Modern times call for a modern monarchy, and William has been active in getting that together,” the source said.