EntertainmentDuchess Kate's public absence ignites speculation: Pregnancy or post-surgery recuperation?

Duchess Kate's public absence ignites speculation: Pregnancy or post-surgery recuperation?

British media is buzzing with rumors about the alleged pregnancy of Kate Middleton.
British media is buzzing with rumors about the alleged pregnancy of Kate Middleton.
Images source: © Getty Images
Kamil Kozłowski

1:38 PM EST, February 19, 2024

Duchess Kate has been going through an intensely taxing period necessitating a temporary recess from her Duchess duties. She was admitted to the same clinic as her father-in-law for a planned abdominal surgery. While photographs emerged of King Charles III leaving the hospital, the Duchess was last seen publicly last year.

In response to a verbal faux pas by royal family members, unsubstantiated information about potential complications during the surgery flooded the media. A statement by a Spanish journalist alleging a royal cover-up of her true health condition stirred quite a controversy. Meanwhile, popular conspiracy theories suggest that Duchess Kate... is pregnant.

Are William and Kate expecting their fourth child?

British tabloids have started speculating about a possible pregnancy for the 41-year-old Duchess. Journalists' suspicions were prompted by the cryptic comments from Kate's close friends regarding her current condition. In addition, emphasis has been placed on her ongoing stay at one of the royal residences in Norfolk County. Despite its proximity to London, the residence offers a tranquil setting ideal for rest and recovery. Magazines are making vivid reminders that during each of her past pregnancies, the Duchess of Wales also chose to avoid media and public appearances, preferring the safety and comfort of her home.

Reportedly, it appears that William and Kate do not plan to comment on these speculations any time soon. Of course, as with all conspiracy theories, one should approach such information with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Duchess Kate
Duchess Kate© Getty Images | Karwai Tang
Princess Kate
Princess Kate© Getty Images | Karwai Tang
Duchess Kate and Prince William
Duchess Kate and Prince William© Getty Images | Karwai Tang