The world was left reeling when King Charles and Princess Catherine revealed their battles with cancer. While the news sent shockwaves around the globe, for Prince William, it marked the “hardest” year of his life.

The King’s health concerns first came to light earlier this year during a hospital stay for a procedure related to benign prostate enlargement.

Subsequent tests revealed the presence of cancer, prompting the King to commence a schedule of regular treatments.

Only weeks later, Princess Catherine issued an emotional message, revealing that she had also been diagnosed with cancer.

Fortunately, both Catherine and Charles have shown positive progress in their health battles, but despite their improvements, Prince William has shared that the past year has been “dreadful” as he watched his loved ones battle cancer.

“Honestly, it’s been dreadful. It’s probably been the hardest year in my life,” William said when asked about how his year has been.

“So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult.

“But I’m so proud of my wife, I’m proud of my father, for handling the things that they have done.

“But from a personal family point of view, it’s been, yeah, it’s been brutal.”

Although it has been a difficult period for the Royal Family, William recently offered a glimmer of hope after revealing Princess Catherine is doing “really well” following her treatment for cancer.

Speaking ahead of the annual Earthshot Prize awards ceremony in South Africa, William shared the rare update.

“She’s doing really well thanks,” he told the BBC.

While Catherine was unable to accompany William on the trip due to her ongoing recovery, William said she would be cheering him on from home.

“She’s been amazing this whole year. I know she will be really keen to see tonight be a success,” he added.

-with PA.