Expert analyzes

Why Princess Kate is the source of so many rumors

Viennese communications expert Vanessa Mucha-Trnavský (right) talks about conspiracies surrounding Princess Kate.

(Bild: All About You, Krone KREATIV)

Despite the publication of her cancer diagnosis, the conspiracy theories surrounding Princess Kate continue to grow. But how can this phenomenon be explained? Viennese communications expert and founder of PR agency All About You, Vanessa Mucha-Trnavský, talks about the reasons behind this worrying development.

"Krone": The conspiracy theories surrounding Princess Kate are not diminishing despite the publication of the cancer diagnosis. How do you explain this phenomenon?
Vanessa Mucha-Trnavský: From a communication perspective, statements about the health of publicly known personalities can arouse people's curiosity, especially when not all the details of a situation or diagnosis are known. People then try to fill in these gaps with their own assumptions and theories.

In your opinion, should it be communicated exactly which cancer the princess has?
Deciding which details of a cancer diagnosis should be made public is a very personal and complex matter. On the one hand, it can help to improve the public's understanding of the disease and help to remove taboos. On the other hand, however, it could cause additional stress or strain for the person affected, which could have a negative impact on the healing process. It is important to respect this decision.

Was the video message the right way to manage the crisis?
In general, a personal video message allows the person affected to communicate directly with the public. This establishes a connection with people, comes across as approachable and empathetic and conveys authenticity and transparency. This can promote support and understanding from the outside. A key aspect of this is that Princess Kate raises awareness of certain health issues and helps to break down stigma.

What would you do now in terms of communication? People want to know how the mother of three is doing.
It is important to find a balance between the public's right to know and the individual's right to privacy. Disclosure of information should have a clear benefit to the public from a communications perspective, for example in terms of raising awareness of certain health issues or even removing stigma.

King Charles and Princess Kate are both currently battling cancer.

(Bild: APA/Chris Jackson/Pool Photo via AP)

Finally, a general question: why does Kate and her privacy cause so many rumors?
With public figures, there is often room for interpretation, especially in cases where information is limited or not fully communicated. Also, the mistrust that some people have towards institutions, authorities or the media can lead them to assume that there is more to the official explanation and seek alternative reasons. It also depends very much on how the media coverage is going. Especially in the context of the royal family, rumors are often spread by the yellow press out of sensationalism and a focus on gossip, at the expense of facts and seriousness. But also to damage the reputation and integrity of the people concerned. This in turn can fuel speculation and rumors. It is therefore important to check the sources and choose them carefully. Ultimately, you should be aware that not everything you read has to be true or correct.