Constantine, already old and unhealthy when he came to power, dies on May 22, 1067.

His final act had been to demand that only his sons succeed him, forcing his wife Eudokia Makrembolitissa to take a vow not to remarry.

Eudokia, the daughter of John Macrembolites and niece of the late Patriarch Michael Cerularius, is confirmed as regent for their sons Michael VII and Konstantios, along with Constantine's brother, the Caesar John Doukas.

Michael VII is just old enough to rule on his own, but nevertheless is considered co-emperor with his younger brother, while Eudokia runs the administration of the empire, wisely and moderately and personally taking charge of the education of the heir apparent.