President-elect Donald Trump had a significant conversation with Prince William following a challenging year for both the King and Kate Middleton. In December 2024, Trump, 78, met with the 42-year-old Prince of Wales at the U.K. Ambassador’s Residence in Paris. The event was the ceremonial reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral, which had been devastated by fire in 2019.

Trump's Account of the Meeting

During the meeting, Trump asked about Prince William's wife and was informed that she was doing well. He also inquired about the King, learning that he was fighting hard. Trump expressed his empathy, stating that it was a sad situation. He recounted that they had a great talk for over half an hour.The U.S. president-elect also commented on Prince William's appearance, noting that he looked well and very handsome. He praised the prince, saying he was a good-looking guy and looked great in person. Trump emphasized the positive nature of their interaction, stating that he had a great talk with the prince.As the two men posed for photos in the foyer, Trump further praised Prince William, calling him a good man who was doing a fantastic job.

The Royal Family's Year

The British royal family had a year like no other. In February, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles, 76, had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing treatment. In March, Princess Kate, 42, shared that she was also undergoing treatment and reduced her royal duties to focus on her health. In September, she announced that she had completed chemotherapy.During her Together at Christmas carol service in London on December 6, Princess Kate made a rare comment about navigating cancer. Event performer Paloma Faith reportedly brought up the topic, and Kate responded that it had been an unplanned year for many.The royal family came together in full force at Westminster Abbey for Princess Kate's fourth annual Together at Christmas. It was the children's first public appearance in six months, but King Charles and Queen Camilla were absent due to practical reasons. The King and Queen were on a state visit to the U.K. and had bid farewell to the Amir of Qatar.Despite the challenges, the Together at Christmas service was a unifying night for the royal family. Prince William then traveled to Paris the following day.