Prince William Admits 2024 Was ‘Hardest Year I’ve Ever Had’ in Rare TV Appearance: ‘Life Is Sent to Test Us’

Prince William made the personal revelation in a special episode of Eugene Levy’s Apple TV+ series, ‘The Reluctant Traveler’

The 43-year-old Prince of Wales appears in a special episode of The Frequent Flyer titled “Living Royal Life in the UK.” In an introductory clip, presenter Eugene Levy is seen exploring London on a double-decker bus, commenting, “I’ve never felt more like a tourist.”

But his visit takes a royal turn when Prince William personally invites him to Windsor Castle.
William jokes, “We offer this service to everyone. We do personalized tours everywhere.”

The two stroll through the castle gardens with their black Cocker Spaniel, Orla, as Levy asks how the prince spends his free time at home.
William smiles and replies, “Sleep. When you have three young children, sleep is an important part of your life.” William and his wife, Kate Middleton, are parents to Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.

Later, the conversation turns to more serious topics over a drink at a local pub, where William reflects on recent difficulties. His wife and his father, King Charles, both faced cancer diagnoses over the past year.
He admits, “I would say 2023-24 has been the toughest year of my life. Life tests us, and overcoming those challenges is what shapes us.”

Kate revealed her cancer diagnosis in March 2024, and after undergoing chemotherapy, announced in January 2025 that her cancer was in remission. She has since returned to many of her royal duties, emphasizing that recovery has not always been smooth. During a recent hospital visit, she said, “It’s not a straight path as you might expect. The reality is different. You’re going through a rough patch.”

William has also spoken candidly about the impact this period has had on the family, describing it as “horrible” and perhaps the “toughest year” of his life. He added, “Trying to manage everything and keep things going has been very difficult, but I’m so proud of my wife and my father for how they’ve handled it.”

The special episode of The Frequent Flyer featuring Prince William is scheduled to premiere on Apple TV+ on Friday, October 3, with new episodes released weekly until October 31.