Netflix's The Crown star reacts to Kate Middleton's 'really sad' cancer update

The Crown star Josh O'Connor has shared his reaction to the news of Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis as Queen Camilla also broke her silence. In a statement which sent shockwaves through the world, the future Queen of England, 42, revealed she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy following her abdominal surgery in January.

Following the sad news on Friday, stars from film, politics and sports have all sent their well wishes to the mum-of-three. And now Netflix star, Josh, 33, who plays King Charles in The Crown, has reached out too.

Speaking at the premiere of his new film Challengers in Sydney, Australia, with co-stars Zendaya and Mike Faist, the actor said he "always feels so sorry" for the Royal family "having to make public statements at a time like this".

He explained: "I know it's part of their job, but they're born into it. And the way everyone was talking about Kate, I found really sad. But I just hope she's all right, and everyone's thinking of her and sending her good wishes."

Josh's kind words come after Queen Camilla made a rare comment about Kate's health while out visiting Shrewsbury today.

Holding a hand-drawn sign, which read 'Send Love to Kate' she said she knows the Princess of Wales is "thrilled by all the kind wishes and support".

Following weeks of hurtful speculation on platforms such as X, Instagram and TikTok, Kate's cancer announcement prompted apologies from several people.

She bravely made the statement in a special video message to the public, saying: “I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you, personally, for all the wonderful messages of support and for your understanding whilst I have been recovering from surgery.

“It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family, but I’ve had a fantastic medical team who have taken great care of me, for which I am so grateful.

“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful.

"However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.

“This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family," she continued.

“As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment.

"But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK.

“As I have said to them, I am well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.

“Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too. As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.

“We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery.

“At this time, I am also thinking of all those whose lives have been affected by cancer," she added. "For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”