Princess Kate Middleton‘s brother, James Middleton, is offering new insight into his sister’s “challenging” battle with cancer.
In an interview with the U.K.’s The Times published Monday, May 12, the 38-year-old spoke candidly about Kate’s health more than one year after she announced her cancer diagnosis.
“What I think is that, as a family, you learn to see and process and understand things,” he explained. “For her and her family, it was a challenging time, and I know for us and our bigger family, it was a challenging time, but I think it’s about communication and it’s about offering support and help where you can.”
James opened up about how he expressed his support for Kate, 43. “Being there for someone is such an important part, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be on your terms, and it shouldn’t be on your terms. It should be on their terms; unconditional: ‘I’m not doing it for something in return. I’m doing it because I love you,’” he continued. “And that’s the simplest way of really demonstrating love. You can do it in all these various fancy ways, but actually, you know, it is just generally being there.”
James Middleton Breaks Silence on Kate’s Cancer Diagnosis
Kate revealed in March 2024 that she was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer and was pursuing chemotherapy treatment. James reacted to the news at the time with an inspiring message shared via Instagram.
“Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together. As a family, we will climb this one with you too 
,” he wrote alongside a throwback photo of himself and Kate. (Their parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, also share daughter Pippa Middleton.)
After taking a step away from her public-facing duties, Kate announced in September 2024 that she completed chemotherapy. Earlier this year, the duchess confirmed she is in remission.
“I remain focussed on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal,” she shared in a lengthy statement in January. “I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.”
Kate Middleton and James Middleton’s Sweetest Sibling Moments Over the Years
Throughout her health journey, Kate has felt the support of not only her siblings, but also her husband, Prince William, and their three children: Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7. She has also made a gradual return to the royal spotlight, recently stepping out with her family for VE Day events in London.
“Kate’s return to royal duties has been careful and considered, reflecting her need to protect her well-being,” royal commentator Afua Acheampong-Hagan exclusively told Us Weekly last month. “Her ability to manage this transition will set a precedent for how the royal family balances duty with personal well-being in the future. … Kate needs to help shape a royal family that remains connected to the public while upholding the traditions that define it.”
