Kate Middleton Seen for the First Time Since Hospitalization Amid Theories She Was 'Missing'

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Kate Middleton

Kate Middleton is still taking a break from her royal duties as she recovers from abdominal surgery, but worried fans should be able to rest easy now that the Princess of Wales has been spotted in public for the first time since she was hospitalized.

The 42-year-old was seen riding in the passenger seat of a car as her mother, Carole, drove around near Windsor Castle, on Monday, March 4, in photos shared by TMZ. The royal looked relaxed, wearing sunglasses as she traveled to her destination.

Check out the photos here.

Kate's public appearance comes at a time when many online have shared worries about the Princess, claiming that she's "missing" and touting various theories.

Buckingham Palace responded to the concerns by stating that she was still recovering at home, while also pointing out that the original statement in January said that only "significant new information" would be shared and that Kate would probably not be back to her royal duties until after Easter.

On Feb. 29, a rep for Kate also said, “Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timelines of the princess’ recovery and we’d only be providing significant updates. That guidance stands.”

It's unclear why Kate was out with her mother in the U.K. on Monday, but hopefully, the appearance will quell some of the conversation among fans. The Palace previously stated that Kate wants to keep her medical information private, so no details about her surgery—other than the fact that it was planned and concerning the abdominal region—have been shared.

Kate was in the hospital for around two weeks after the surgery, before going home to recover with her husband, Prince William, and their three kids, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Meanwhile, King Charles is taking a break from his duties as well since being diagnosed with cancer, with Queen Camilla and other royals stepping in to help out.

Next: Prince William Spotted at a Pub Amid Fans' Growing Concern Over Kate Middleton's Health Condition