BBC Studios, the team behind the video message in which the Princess of Wales discloses her cancer diagnosis, has shed light on the filming process amid suggestions of editing. Kate Middleton’s poignant announcement was broadcast before the Six O’Clock News last Friday, unveiling her battle with cancer following chemotherapy treatment subsequent to significant abdominal surgery. However, specifics regarding the type of cancer were omitted.
Recorded on Wednesday, the future queen shared, “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London. At the time, it was believed to be non-cancerous. The surgery was a success. However, subsequent tests revealed the presence of cancer. Therefore, my medical team recommended preventive chemotherapy, which I am currently undergoing.”
BBC Studios refuted claims of any alteration to the footage, affirming that what viewers witnessed was unadulterated content captured by their team. Notably, the same team documented events such as the King’s Coronation and Queen Elizabeth’s funeral. Emphasising their lack of editorial involvement, they clarified their role solely as recorders, not participating in distribution or editing.
The video’s airing followed a recent uproar over a “manipulated” Mother’s Day photo featuring Kate and her children, which was later retracted by international agencies amidst suspicions of digital alteration.
Post-broadcast, BBC Studios released a concise statement, extending wishes for the Princess’s swift recovery: “BBC Studios filmed a message from the Princess of Wales at Windsor this week. We would like to wish Her Royal Highness a speedy recovery.”
Chris Ship, ITV News’ royal editor, offered insights into Princess Kate’s choice of conveying her cancer treatment through a video message, citing a desire for a personal touch. Reflecting on the difference between a written statement and a video, Ship noted, “If you look back to how the King revealed his cancer diagnosis earlier this year, it was in a statement from Buckingham Palace. Kate has done it, I am told, in a video form because she wanted to do it in the most personal way possible. Yes, of course, it helps to silence all the conspiracy theorists as well, but she wanted to do the video message, and it was a very moving message too. And she wanted to make that very personal statement herself.”
