Sally Bedell Smith, author of “Prince Charles: The Passions and Paradoxes of an Improbable Life,” said, “His absence is putting a lot of pressure on the other members of the royal family, who are certainly up to it.” Having the Princess of Wales, one of the royal family’s shining stars, recovering from surgery only adds to the pressures already there.

As the king continues to recuperate, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is anticipated to give him a call on Wednesday night to extend his best wishes. It is anticipated that later this month, live audiences will once again begin.

Unfortunately for the House of Windsor, Charles’ illness has come at an awkward time.

The king, who ascended the throne just 17 months ago, has pledged to reduce the cost of the monarchy, in part by keeping a lid on the number of “working royals” whose public duties are supported by taxpayer funds.

But with two of the most visible family members out sick, it will be more challenging for the family to keep up.

In addition to the widely publicized pomp and ceremony of royal processions and state visits, the Windsors attend hundreds of little-known events every year to recognize the accomplishments of the general public and mark local events such as the opening of libraries and community centers. Hundreds of charities cherish royal appearances, which give visibility and credibility to their good work among potential donors.

The 75-year-old king was seen in public for the first time since his cancer diagnosis when he left his offices at Clarence House on Tuesday after a brief reunion with his younger son, Prince Harry.

Harry arrived in London from California less than 24 hours after Buckingham Palace announced the king’s cancer diagnosis. The meeting has raised hopes that the pair can repair their troubled relationship after Harry publicly criticized the royal family for unconscious racism and complained about the way his American biracial wife, former actor Meghan Markle, was treated by palace officials.

Harry and Meghan, once seen as stars of the royal family who could help the Windsors connect with a younger generation, walked away from royal duties in 2020 and now live in California.