King Charles III managed to grab headlines for all the wrong reasons. For an institution that prides itself on pomp, propriety, and keeping calm at all costs, they sure have a knack for letting cracks show.
As the Trooping the Colour ceremony unfolded on June 14, an event steeped in 260 years of military precision and royal pomp, the King was caught exchanging heated words with Queen Camilla during their carriage ride. The spectacle of soldiers, horses, and regimental banners seemed almost secondary as the royal couple’s carriage became the unexpected focal point of attention.
While Trooping the Colour is traditionally a day of unity and celebration, marking the sovereign’s official birthday, this year’s event has been marred by reports that Charles was visibly agitated during the procession. As the royal carriage made its way down the Mall, flanked by cheering crowds and a parade of soldiers in full regalia, Charles appeared animated in conversation with Camilla. According to lip reader Jeremy Freeman, the King muttered phrases like, “absolutely crazy,” “disgrace,” and “extraordinary.” He also reportedly said, “on my way out,” followed by the cryptic observation, “That’s the difference between me and him.” (via The Mirror)
The identity of the “him” in question remains unclear, but speculation is rife. Could it be a reference to Prince Andrew, whose ongoing feud with the King over Royal Lodge has reportedly reached boiling point? Or perhaps it was Prince Harry, whose estrangement from the family continues to cast a shadow over royal proceedings. Whatever the context, the King’s visible frustration during such a high-profile event is unusual, if not unprecedented.
Camilla, for her part, appeared composed, seemingly opting for the time-honored royal tradition of saying nothing and letting the moment pass. But her calm demeanor only heightened the stark contrast with Charles, whose visible agitation was impossible to ignore.
This latest incident comes at a time of mounting tension within the Royal Family. Recent reports have highlighted Charles’ growing frustration with his brother Andrew, who has refused to vacate Royal Lodge despite financial pressures and the King’s wishes. Charles is said to be investigating Andrew’s finances to prevent any further reputational damage to the monarchy.
As the head of a family that has become increasingly fractured, Charles must navigate not only his duties as monarch but also the very public unraveling of his private life. The irony, of course, is that while royal ceremonies like Trooping the Colour are designed to project unity and stability, the cracks in the institution have never been more visible.
Published: Jun 15, 2025 09:27 am