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He may have been without his wife, Queen Camilla, but King Charles seemed delighted to see the stars at tonight’s Royal Variety Performance.

Looking smart in a crisp dinner jacket, the monarch laughed as he entered the Royal Albert Hall – and was met by Sir Elton John.

The red carpet was stolen by television presenter Amanda Holden, who was channelling her inner Little Mermaid – not to mention a set of killer abs.

She sported in a sea-foam coloured cropped, sequin-studded top with boxy shoulder pads and a skirt with a tulle train that bore a startling resemblance to Ariel’s tail.

Holden was there with her show co-host, Alan Carr, whose midnight blue dinner jacket and waistcoat was given added sparkle by a lizard brooch.

They weren’t there to greet the sovereign as they were preparing to go on stage, but beamed as they met him afterwards.

However stars including a delighted Sir Elton John were. The King could be seen grinning as they enjoyed a joke before the show at the start of the light-hearted evening.

The monarch also accepted a posy meant for his wife from Iris King-Taylor, eight, and Louie Cooper, ten, which included flowers picked from the gardens of Brinsworth House, the Royal Variety Charity care home in Twickenham, south west London, which mirrored blooms carried by the Queen on her wedding day.

King Charles III arrives at the Royal Albert Hall ahead of the Royal Variety Performance 2024, at the Royal Albert Hall

The King left the royal Rolls Royce as he waved to the crowds at the entrance of the historic venue

King Charles meets Elton John as he arrives for the Royal Variety Performance

Elton John and David Furnish laugh as they meet with the monarch, after they greeted him to the show

The monarch also accepted a posy meant for his wife from Iris King-Taylor, eight, and Louie Cooper, ten

The posy included flowers picked from the gardens of Brinsworth House, the Royal Variety Charity care home in Twickenham, south west London , which mirrored blooms carried by the Queen on her wedding day

King Charles breaks into a smile as he meet magical act Penn Jillette and Teller

King Charles meets with Lorraine Kelly, who made an appearance with her Change and Check Choir

A performer beams as she talks with King Charles after the Royal Variety show

King Charles gushes as he meets with on-screen partners Amanda Holden and Alan Carr – who hosted the night

Amanda Holden, 53, stole the show in a glitzy green co-ord as she led the red carpet arrivals at the 2024 Royal Variety Performance on Friday

Camilla, who had been due to attend, was forced to pull out at the last minute after continuing to suffer from some ‘lingering post-viral symptoms’ from a nasty chest infection.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: ‘Following a recent chest infection, The Queen continues to experience some lingering post-viral symptoms, as a result of which doctors have advised that, after a busy week of engagements, Her Majesty should prioritise sufficient rest.

‘With great regret, she has therefore withdrawn from attendance at tonight’s Royal Variety Performance. His Majesty will attend as planned.’

It is understood that while she is very much ‘on the road to recovery’, these things can take time to fully clear.

Sir Elton and his husband, David Furnish, presented a musical number from their new show, The Devil Wears Prada l, with star Vanessa Williams and its cast.

TV presenter Lorraine Kelly also make made an appearance with her Change and Check Choir led by Wet Wet Wet singer Marti Pellow.

They performed ‘Love Is All Around’, which is being re-released to raise awareness of breast cancer early detection.

The choir is made up of women from across the UK who detected their breast cancer through Kelly’s campaign.

The King was clearly amused during a sketch from political satirist Matt Forde.

The comedian, who is known for his impressions, joked about unfounded claims made by Donald Trump during the recent presidential campaign that illegals immigrants from Haiti were eating locals’ pets in the small Ohio city of Springfield.

King Charles shakes hands with Nemo – this year’s Eurovision winner, from Switzerland

Comedian and Ted Lasso star Ellie Taylor battles to hide her amazement as she meets King Charles

King Charles meets with the Royal Variety Show’s performers after the show

Britain’s King Charles speaks with Charlene White after the show as he greets the guests

The camera spanned to the monarch, who laughed enthusiastically.

Later, the King could be seen greeting an array of guests, from extravagantly-dressed Eurovision winner Nemo to Ted Lasso star Ellie Taylor – who sported an open-mouthed look of amazement as she found herself face-to-face with the monarch.

The comedian had earlier posted on social media about her excitement at being part of the Royal Variety event, for which her parents were in the crowd. They included a sweet good luck card from her young children.

Steven Mulhern clutched a hand to his chest as he talked to Charles, while he cracked a magical smile as he chatted with illusionists Penn Jillette and Teller.

Given the length and lateness of tonight’s engagement, the Queen has, sources said, ‘sensibly’ decided to heed medical advice not to ‘overstretch’ herself.

It is understood that she will remain in London until Saturday but then travel to Sandringham for the week as planned.

King Charles shares a joke with TV personality Penny Lancaster, who is married to Rod Stewart

Victoria Derbyshire looks intent as she talks with King Charles at the Royal Albert Hall

King Charles talks with Stephen Mulhern after the Royal Variety performance – as the TV host holds a hand to his chest

Marisha Wallace talks informally with King Charles at the conclusion of the show

Simon Lipkin and Jack Philpott meet King Charles ahead of the Royal Variety Performance

Insiders insisted there was no cause for alarm, describing it as ‘a nasty bug that apparently is going around a bit’.

She is said to be feeling a little under the weather still but, generally speaking. on the mend. A royal source said Her Majesty was ‘naturally disappointed to miss the evening’s entertainments, and sends her sincere apologies to all those involved, but is a great believer that ‘the show must go on’.

‘She hopes to be back to full strength and regular public duties very soon,’ they added.

The Royal Variety Show – a hardy annual of the Buckingham Palace calendar – is the world’s longest running entertainment show, dating back to 1912.

It supports the Royal Variety Charity which helps members of the entertainment industry in the UK who need help and assistance, including those that have fallen on hard times or need mental health support.

This is the first year that His Majesty has attended as patron of the Royal Variety Charity.

Star turns in this year’s show includes a performances from the new productions of Oliver and The Devil Wears Prada , a song by Sydney Christmas – the winner of this year’s Britain’s Got Talent programme whose prize it is to perform live – plus magic duo Penn & Teller.

Holden and her TV husband Carr have teamed up to present the highly anticipated show after winning viewers over in their two documentary series Amanda and Alan’s Spanish Job and Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job, with the latter recently renewed for a third season.

The Heart FM breakfast host, 52, and her TV husband Alan Carr, 48, have teamed up this year to present the highly anticipated show

Britain’s Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas exuded elegance in a strapless silver sequin gown ahead of her performance

Sophie Ellis-Bextor, 45, looked incredibly chic in a one-shoulder black dress and bejewelled skirt

American singer and actress Vanessa Williams, 61, looked ageless in a one-shoulder navy ruffled dress

Lorraine Kelly wore a graphic white T-shirt with the words Love Is All Around for Lorraine’s campaign

Nikki Wheatley, Marti Pellow, Lorraine and Helen Addis arrived on the red carpet for their life-saving Change + Check campaign, continuing its mission to raise awareness of breast cancer

Singer James Bay looked trendy in a brown satin blouse and black trousers

Comedian and actress Ellie Taylor looked incredible in a sequin caped gold gown, teamed with stylish platform heels

Paul Chuckle stuck up a rock sign as he arrived on the red carpet

Marisha Wallace looked angelic in a full-length sequin gown

Stephen Mulhern looked handsome on the red carpet

Their hilarious dynamic is a hit with fans, who love the TV personalities separately, but even more so as a pair.

Alan said: ‘I am completely thrilled to be asked back to host the Royal Variety Performance so soon, what a compliment and an honour!

‘To be able to host this magical evening with my best friend and TV wife Amanda Holden is the icing on the cake for me.

‘If I have half as much fun as I did three years ago, well we are all in for a real treat.’

Amanda said: ‘It truly is such an honour to be hosting the Royal Variety Performance this year. I’m still pinching myself!

‘This is a dream job and Alan is a true friend, we are already bursting with ideas and excitement, it’s going to be such a fun night!

‘I’ve worked on Britain’s Got Talent for 18 years and have been so proud watching all our winners perform for the Royal Family.

‘This year will be no different, so in the words of Sydnie Christmas, let’s av it!’

Sydnie Christmas was the winner of this year’s Britain’s Got Talent and will be accompanied by Dave Arch and The Royal Variety orchestra for her award-winning performance.

There will also be an exclusive medley from Cameron Mackintosh’s production of the much loved musical Oliver! and a performance from the cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s smash hit musical Starlight Express.

This year’s Eurovision winner Nemo, treble Brit Award winner James Bay and disco Queen Sophie Ellis-Bextor, who will be performing her latest hit and much-loved classic Murder on The Dance Floor, will all be taking to the stage.

America’s world class magicians and comedy duo Penn and Teller are flying in especially for the show, plus, presenter and magician Stephen Mulhern will be wowing the Royals with tricks and illusions.

Cirque Du Soleil will perform a world exclusive from their Vegas show ‘O’, and the English National Ballet will perform ‘Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy’ from their Christmas production of ‘Nutcracker’.

Ellie Taylor of Ted Lasso fame and political comic Matt Forde will present a humorous round up of the year, joined by writer and comic Scott Bennett and Scottish comedian Larry Dean.

Source: MEGAThe Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reportedly experiencing ‘dilemmas’ in their marriage.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have not been seen in public together in over a month, and this could be because the “Diva Duchess” is “feeling the strain” from all directions.

This led a source to spill, “She has really felt the strain in recent weeks, and with all the speculation surrounding her and Harry and their marriage.”

Source: MEGAThe Duke and Duchess of Sussex reportedly adopt a ‘together apart’ approach to public life.

“They haven’t done themselves any favors by doing so many separate events but this is what they have decided to do as it works best for them at the moment as a couple and they both feel they can shine at events that are close to their hearts,” they added.

The insider continued, “But it does upset her that, while Harry was getting praised for all of his appearances, she is getting criticized for what she says, what she wears, etc and it brings back hurtful memories of when she was a royal.”

This taps into long-standing speculation that the Duchess of Sussex was only ever interested in “conquering Hollywood,” and used her marriage to a senior British royal to try and “have Tinseltown in a fury to make her an A-lister,” a Hollywood insider revealed. “It didn’t turn out that way, and backfired on her in ways she likely still regrets.”

“The problem started when she started throwing her weight around within the monarchy, which of course made it to the media and her behavior was reported on accordingly,” they added when referencing Meghan’s claims of bullying and “diva antics” in Kensington Palace.

 

Source: MEGAThe Duchess of Sussex will reportedly ‘extend her tentacles’ when she feels her fiery-haired Duke is growing tired of her.

“She destroyed herself, and Harry ruined his reputation in the process” the source bluntly concluded.

These observations come after it was disclosed the duo bought a home in Portugal.

Another source explained, “It gives them an escape outside of America and means they can safely holiday in Europe in the sunshine. When they’re there, Harry can easily go to England if he feels the need to, and it also gives friends and some members of the family the opportunity to visit them as it’s only a short flight. The invitation for Charles to come and see his grandchildren is there and now it will be up to them whether they take it up.”

Source: MEGAMeghan Markle has been ‘overwhelmingly’ accused of staff bullying.

Despite the fresh locale, trouble in the Sussex union has been circulating after nearly a year of no such reports surfacing.

“She’s just super controlling,” a royal insider shared about the ‘Diva Duchess.’ “She extends her tentacles to rein him back into her web anytime the old Harry we all thought was a dunce, but a lovable one comes crawling home. It is sad to see him grovel back like a dog with his tail between his legs.”

An X commenter brutally dished, “They are so toxic. He has unresolved PTSD trauma from his mother’s death, and she exploits that. She also seems to resent Harry in a way because she fought for fame her entire life and he had it before birth even.”

Source: MEGAPrince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced past reports of marital difficulty, specifically throughout 2023.

 

Source: MEGAPrince Harry and Meghan Markle have faced past reports of marital difficulty, specifically throughout 2023.

In a touching move, Kate Middleton has invited the children who survived the Southport stabbings to her Christmas carol concert after meeting them last month.

The Princess of Wales, 42, met them in private previously and they will reunite on December 6 at her first Together at Christmas celebration since finishing her chemotherapy.

She visited the grieving town in October and offered words of comfort to the families of little Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine.

In a deeply personal statement released in the wake of the attack, the Princess wrote: ‘As parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through.’

Their meeting with the victims’ families was held completely in private and not announced publicly until they had left.

The prince and princess spent half an hour in private with each of the girls’ families.

They also spent time with dance teacher Leanne Lucas, 35, who was seriously injured as she shielded youngsters as they were attacked by a knifeman during a Taylor Swift-themed summer holiday class.

The couple then went onto meet with emergency responders who were involved in the aftermath of the attack at a local community centre to hear about their experiences.

In August, King Charles also paid tributes to the victims of the Southport stabbing during an emotional visit to the town. and met with survivors of the rampage.

 

The Princess of Wales arriving for the ‘Together at Christmas’ Carol Service at Westminster Abbey in London, in 2022

Prince William and the Princess of Wales arrive for a visit to Southport Community Centre in Southport, north west England on October 10

According to The Sun, the young survivors of the horrendous attack will stay in London for three days, with their transport and accommodation paid for by charity Southport Stronger Together.

Around 1,600 invites have been sent out to the Princess of Wales’ event, who wants to celebrate those who have ‘above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive’.

The King, Queen Camilla and William are all expected at the concert, with a later decision being made on whether George, Charlotte and Louis will attend.

A source told the newspaper: ‘The Royal family have been a tremendous support to the families.

‘The King met the survivors, then Kate took time out to meet them in private last month with Prince William.’

Axel Rudakubana, of Banks in Lancashire, 18, is accused of killing the three children in the savage knife attack is charged with the attempted murder of eight other children, who cannot be named for legal reasons, instructor Leanne Lucas and businessman John Hayes. He is also charged with possession of a knife.

 

Axel Rudakubana (pictured), of Banks in Lancashire, is charged with the murders of Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, six-year-old Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven

 

A courtroom sketch shows Axel Rudakubana appearing via video link at the Westminster Magistrates’ Court on October 30, 2024

 

Members of the community blow bubbles as people gathered to mourn victims of the Southport knife attack by holding a vigil on August 5

Alice, Bebe and Elise died following the stabbings at The Hart Space in Southport, Merseyside, shortly before midday on July 29.

The killings sparked large scale riots, fuelled by misinformation on social media, in towns and cities across the UK in August.

Rioting broke out in Southport with the local mosque targeted and a popular convenience shop attacked.

The disorder included looting with hotels housing asylum seekers also attacked before counter demonstrations appeared to quell the disturbances.

The violence, denounced as ‘far-right thuggery’ by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, was sparked by false claims about the identity of a teenage suspect later charged with three counts of murder.

Rudakubana was born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents and moved to the Southport area in 2013. He was living in Banks, Lancashire, at the time of the attack.

Kate’s visit to speak with the survivors was the first public engagement for the princess since she announced that she had complete treatment for cancer and would undertake a carefully calibrated return to public duties.

 

Members of the public gathered to hold a vigil at the scene on July 29

 

The trip to Southport was the first public engagement since the Princess of Wales announced she had completed her chemotherapy treatment

 

In an emotional post following their visit, the couple pledged that they ‘continue to stand with everyone in Southport’

Apart from a small media contingency, the visit was kept deliberately low key as both the prince and princess wanted it to remain as discreet as possible out of respect to those involved.

While speaking to the emergency personnel, Kate was asked how the families of the three girls killed in the attack were doing.

She said: ‘They’re OK. They’re managing it differently. All the families are so different. Individually too they are managing it and processing this tragic event in very different ways but they’re getting support from families and officers and things like that.

‘I think being able to have opportunities to be able to speak to different people in the community about the experience and drawing that together and sharing their experience I think is massively helpful.’

Referencing the earlier meeting with the families of those who died in the attack, the Princess of Wales said: ‘I can’t underestimate how grateful they all are for the support you provided on the day.

 

The royal pair also spent time with dance teacher Leanne Lucas, 35, who was seriously injured as she shielded youngsters (Prince William and Princess Kate are pictured in Southport)

The Prince and Princess of Wales meet a critical care paramedic from the Air Ambulance during a visit to Southport Community Centre

‘On behalf of them, thank you.’

The Prince of Wales told the personnel: ‘You’re all heroes. Please make sure you look after yourselves, please take your time, don’t rush back to work.’

The couple shook hands with the emergency workers after the conversation.

Kate rested a hand on William’s back as she joined him to speak to a member of air ambulance crew.

William called the emergency workers ‘true professionals’ and said they had a ‘bumpy few months’ ahead but would get through it together.

He said: ‘The first thing we thought about was actually how on earth you guys are going to handle having seen what you’ve seen. So, please take your time, don’t rush back to work, do whatever you need to, talk about it, give your superiors a hard time if they not letting you have that time to decompress because it’s so important you have those moments.’

In August, King Charles paid tributes to the victims of the Southport stabbing during an emotional visit to the town.

The monarch was greeted with cheers and applause as he viewed a floral display honouring the youngsters killed in the horror knife attack.

 

Later the royal couple had a sit down meeting with other members of the emergency services

 

The King visited Southport in August, a month after the horrific stabbings took place

 

The monarch appeared moved by the huge number of floral tributes left in Southport

At the time, King Charles said he and Queen Camilla were ‘profoundly shocked’ by the attack

He also met with survivors of the rampage.

Reacting to the tragedy at the time, King Charles said: ‘My wife and I have been profoundly shocked to hear of the utterly horrific incident in Southport today.

‘We send out most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who have so tragically lost their lives, and to all those affected by this truly appalling attack.’

During the his trip to Southport town hall, Charles was greeted by Dr Ruth Hussey, the vice lord lieutenant of Merseyside, and counsellor June Burns, the mayor of Sefton.

He then viewed a large makeshift memorial dedicated to the victims, gesturing in appreciation at the scale of it. One member of the public gave him three cheers and another shouted ‘thank you for coming’ as he greeted the crowds.

The King affectionately patted one young girl on the shoulder as he shook hands with many of the hundreds gathered to see him.

Sometimes it’s best if you just treat people with respect the same way you do in public as you should behind closed doors.

That’s probably one thing that Kate Middleton would tell Meghan Markle if she had the chance as there’s heavy speculation on social media that suggests the future queen of England can’t help but have a chuckle over Meghan and her latest dramatic episode.

Royal Family News: Kate Middleton Laughing At Meghan Markle Over Her Latest Dramatic Episode

That’s because there are reports that say the Duchess of Sussex is a nightmare to work with behind the scenes and that’s why so many of her employees have quit in droves.

But for Prince William and Kate Middleton, this doesn’t surprise them at all. After all, they know that Meghan was already difficult to work with when staffers at the palace were complaining about her when she was still a full-time member of the royal family.

Well, it looks like things might have gotten worse as the Duchess of Sussex has gotten a reputation for being a bad employer.

But because Meghan is so obsessed with her reputation, she’s been trying to counter attack with positive reports about her and her work ethic and how she really treats people behind closed doors, but that hasn’t helped.

Prince Harry’s Vulgar Slur, Suggests King Charles Is Bullying Him

Royal Family News: The Princess Of Wales Knew This Would Happen All Along

For Kate Middleton, she could have predicted this all a long time ago. She knew things would end for Meghan like this sooner rather than later. After all, you can only fake it for so long. And Kate knew that Meghan is like this and it would have only been a matter of time before the world would have found out about it, too.

So far the Princess of Wales has not made any comments about the matter but we will definitely update you with all of the latest details once they come in.

In the meantime, let us know what you think by leaving us a line with your thoughts in our comments section below.

Also, don’t forget to come back to Celebrating the Soaps for all the latest news and updates on our favorite celebrities and royals along with spoilers from The Young and the Restless, The Bold and the Beautiful, General Hospital and Days of Our Lives.

As King Charles turns 76, it will be a bittersweet occasion as he contemplates how much has changed within his close family – with some bonds made stronger than ever by a difficult year, while his relationship with his younger son Harry remains, at best, distant.

Before Charles was King he spent 64 years as the longest-serving heir apparent and Prince of Wales in history.

During that time the workaholic royal eagerly planned to make an impact on a wide array of causes close to his heart when his time to rule came – from the environment to disadvantaged young people.

But despite the long wait to serve his country, only 18 months into his reign Charles was diagnosed with cancer in February and began the gruelling process of treatment which limited him at times to an almost Covid-like ‘bubble’.

However the monarch has been able to rely on his daughter-in-law Kate, who announced her own cancer diagnosis in March, and his wife Queen Camilla for support.

He already viewed the Princess of Wales as the ‘daughter he never had’ but they have bonded even more deeply over their battle with the disease.

Meanwhile, he’s relied  on Queen Camilla to step up her public engagements without him – which she’d done with aplomb, despite the fact she’s not a ‘natural’ in the role, according to Princess Anne.

But other family relationships remain fraught, with his disillusioned son Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle continuing to live in California.

Here, on the day King Charles turns 76, MailOnline goes inside his relationship with the two pillars who have been supporting him through a brutal year – Princess Kate and Queen Camilla.

The monarch has been able to rely on his daughter-in-law Princess Kate, who announced her own cancer diagnosis in March, for support. Pictured together at the premiere of No Time To Die in September 2021

King Charles III, Kate and Princess Charlotte stand on the balcony at Buckingham Palace to watch the RAF flypast during Trooping the Colour in 2024

King Charles III (wearing a kilt made from the King Charles III tartan) and Queen Camilla attend The Braemar Highland Games in September 2024

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry pictured on their quasi royal tour of Bogota in September 2024

Charles’ growing bond with Catherine as they battle cancer together

The monarch shares a close bond with his ‘beloved daughter-in-law’ – and their shared health struggles have only ‘cemented’ that special relationship, one well-placed source told The Telegraph recently.

So much so, Kate appeared to include a special tribute to the King in her moving three-minute video, which was released in September and showed the Princess and Prince William celebrating her recovery alongside their three children.

In recent times, Charles and Kate’s close bond has regularly been proven, including at Trooping the Colour this summer, when the Princess made her triumphant return to public life by joining the Royal Family for the King’s Birthday Parade in London.

In a departure from last year, when King Charles stood next to his heir Prince William, this time around, he stood next to Kate.

This was significant, according to body language expert Judi James, as she explained to FEMAIL at the time: ‘Charles made Kate his centre of attention to signal both how much she is cherished and how grateful he was at her attendance.’

It has long been thought that the King and the Princess are close thanks to their shared interests in the arts, among other reasons.

Judi told FEMAIL: ‘Charles has always had an increasingly special relationship with Kate, who he has grown to trust and delight in.

‘Here though, that relationship was highlighted to illustrate how those bonds have only deepened and enriched by their bonds of empathy created by their illnesses.’

Recently, a royal expert claimed that Charles has ‘always had a great respect for Kate’ and would ‘compare notes’ with her on their hospital’s food during their ‘affectionate’ meetings about their respective cancer treatments.

The pair both received treatment at the London Clinic in Harley Street earlier this year.

Appearing in the Channel 5 documentary Kate: A Queen for the Future, the Daily Mail’s editor-at-large Richard Kay discussed Charles and Kate’s meetings during their time as patients in the hospital.

Richard explained: ‘The King actually made a point of going to see Kate and there’s this rather touching story of [Charles] in his dressing gown padding down to his daughter-in-law’s floor.

‘They compared notes about the rather good hospital food, how their treatment was going. It was a moment of great affection.’

The London Clinic’s head chef Paul O’Brien leads a team which provides customised meals for patients, sourcing ingredients from Home Counties farms.

The then-Duchess of Cambridge and Prince of Wales have been snapped sharing a chuckle on a number of occasions, including during this event at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre Stanford Hall in Loughborough in February 2020

Images showing the closeness, such as this photo from the service of thanksgiving for the Queen at St Paul’s cathedral on June 2022 make it clear why Charles has several times said that the family is ‘lucky’ to have Kate

Kate’s willingness to get stuck into any task means she has become a well-liked member of The Firm – with family members as well as the public! (Pictured trying to iron artwork onto silk during a visit to the Dulwich Picture Gallery in March 2012)

Elsewhere in the documentary, The Telegraph’s royal correspondent India McTaggart said King Charles has always valued the Princess of Wales.

She explained: ‘Charles always had a lot of respect for Catherine and he said that in the wedding toast that he made. He said they were very lucky to have her and it remains true to this day.’

Later in the documentary, royal expert Robert Jobson said that Kate Middleton plays a crucial role in King Charles’ relationship with three grandchildren.

The expert said: ‘Catherine is very important in the relationship between Charlotte, George and Louis and the King.

‘When William and the King aren’t necessarily on the best of terms, as sometimes fathers and sons are, it’s always Catherine who makes sure that the King, if he wants to see his grandchildren, sees his grandchildren.’

The King reportedly thinks Kate is doing a ‘wonderful’ job bringing up George, Charlotte and Louis, and gets to spend more time with his son’s family now they live just a few minutes drive away from Windsor Castle.

Kate is known to have a warm relationship with her father-in-law and has reportedly helped smooth the sometimes fractious relationship between the King and his son, William.

King Charles and Kate have also shown several public signs of their close relationship over the past few years.

For instance, the Princess of Wales lovingly called her father-in-law by his family nickname of ‘grandpa’ when she greeted him at a G7 reception in 2021.

Meanwhile, in April 2021, the then Duchess of Cambridge shared a kiss on the cheek with her grief-stricken father-in-law as they left Prince Philip’s funeral.

Kate consoled Charles as the pair walked out of St George’s Chapel following the emotional service in memory of the Duke of Edinburgh.

Photographs show Kate comforting the then Prince of Wales over the loss of his father by putting her hand on his shoulder. She then kissed him on the cheek as they set off from the entrance of the chapel.

Elsewhere, when greeting one another at engagements, Kate and the King will often share a friendly embrace and pecks on the cheeks.

At William and Kate’s wedding, Charles movingly described his son’s new wife as the daughter he had never had during the speech and admitted: ‘We are lucky to have her.’

In a touching speech, the clearly emotional prince paid tribute to his new daughter-in-law – but still found time to crack jokes about his eldest son and his famously thinning hairline.

Queen Camilla steps up for her husband and finally secures her position as respected consort

Although she was once considered to be one of the most unpopular women in Britain, this year has seen Queen Camilla’s warmth, humour and strong sense of duty largely win over any remaining critics.

Amid the King’s cancer battle, Her Majesty, who turned 77 in July, kept the Royal Family united and stepped up her duties, standing in for her husband as he underwent treatment.

Such is her warmth and unquestionable dedication to her duties, she’s been nicknamed ‘the nation’s grandmother’, winning praise from well-wishers and members of the Firm alike for her steadfast presence amid a turbulent time.

She has shown her commitment to her role as the King’s consort many times throughout the year, with her even arriving in Guernsey in July sporting a bandaged ankle after suffering a ‘slight sprain’.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart The London Clinic after Charles underwent a procedure for an enlarged prostate. It would be announced shortly after that he had cancer

King Charles III and Queen Camilla greet fans at Sydney Opera House on October 22, 2024 during their Australia tour

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend day four of Royal Ascot in June 2024

But she refused to let the injury stop her from joining Charles on the second day of their two-day tour of the Channel Islands.

It wasn’t the first time the Queen’s determination to play her part has been on full display – with this year completing Camilla’s remarkable transformation from understudy to centre-stage star.

No one in her orbit – let alone the lady herself – dreamed that she would one day be crowned at her husband’s side (with the blessing and approval of Queen Elizabeth, no less), let alone stand in for His Majesty at prestigious events.

But these past months have seen her prove her place in the Royal Family, after she found herself, to all intents and purposes, the King’s front of house.

Buckingham Palace announced in February that the monarch had been diagnosed with cancer and would be taking a break from his public-facing duties as he began treatment.

Straight away, Camilla, who has been credited with keeping the ‘royal show on the road’, was on duty almost every day, combining back-to-back engagements with supporting her husband.

She led the Firm at the service of thanksgiving for the late King Constantine of Greece in February, stood in for the King at the annual Royal Maundy service in March and also met the first lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, at Clarence House.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart the Macmillan Cancer Centre on April 30 after their first engagement following Charles’ cancer diagnosis

She also undertook a solo two-day visit to Belfast in Northern Ireland in March for a series of engagements that had been arranged before the King was diagnosed with cancer.

It was previously reported that Camilla was ‘proud’ to take on more duties amid Charles and the Princess of Wales receiving their treatment for cancer.

The Queen is ‘resilient’ and will do anything that is asked of her to help the Royal Family, aides reportedly told The Telegraph – despite Her Majesty in past describing royal duties as being ‘tiring’ to carry out.

‘Very tiring,’ she admitted during an audience with the Sultan of Brunei’s wife, Queen Saleha, six years ago. ‘Every day, we’re non-stop. It’s more tiring as you get older. I keep trying to tell everybody that I’m not as young as I used to be, and have to slow down.’

But she has been the ‘steady hand on the tiller’ amid the King’s cancer diagnosis, a former royal butler said.

Speaking to GB News earlier in the year, Paul Burrell remarked that the monarch’s wife is the ‘guiding force’ for the family, as well as being the one behind Charles’s openness regarding his health.

‘I think she is the stabiliser,’ he told the outlet. ‘I think she has that touch. I think she’s able to reach people in a way the King can’t and I think she’s taught him a lot in the last few years about monarchy and how to be King.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla watch The King’s Parade under torrential rain during a visit to Jersey on July 15, 2024

Queen Camilla and King Charles III attend the Order Of The Garter Service at Windsor Castle on June 17, 2024

‘Isn’t that odd really, that she should come up through the ranks and be so supportive and such a stabilising influence in our modern-day Royal Family.’

Meanwhile, it’s not the first time Camilla has been praised for her ability to step up to the task when times get tough.

Her straight-talking sister-in-law Princess Anne said Camilla is ‘not a natural’ at the role – but she ‘does it really well’ and ‘provides that change of speed and tone, that’s equally important’.

It’s a stark contrast to how Camilla was viewed in the early years of her and Charles’s relationship – with even the late Queen initially ‘wanting nothing to do with her’.

Just 12 months after the crash in Paris in which Princess Diana was killed, Charles went to see his mother, looking for approval and support for his relationship with Camilla, then Mrs Parker Bowles.

It was not a happy meeting. As a highly placed royal confidante told The Daily Mail then: ‘The Queen told her son she never wanted to talk about that wicked woman, and wanted nothing to do with her.’

However, the late monarch personally endorsed ‘Queen Camilla’ in the end, accepting Charles’s former mistress as a respected member of the Firm.

Royal expert Joe Little, of Majesty Magazine, previously remarked: ‘I think only now are people appreciating the true worth of Queen Camilla.’

Meanwhile, one royal retainer, who has witnessed many of the family’s twists and turns over the years, told The Daily Mail’s Royal Editor Rebecca English earlier this year that they are genuinely glad to see Camilla’s diligence and sense of duty recognised at long last.

‘She’s been an absolute trooper, really she has,’ they said. ‘She just gets up and goes out there, doing exactly what’s asked of her with a smile on her face.

‘I always think you see the best of people at the worst of times, and I really hope people realise how true that is here.’

Another member of their circle said: ‘She’s absolutely out there leading from the front.’

Dame Joanna Lumley couldn’t have agreed more; the national treasure was one of many queuing up to sing Her Majesty’s praises at a Clarence House reception to mark three years of Camilla’s phenomenally successful book club, The Queen’s Reading Room, in March.

‘They [the Royal Family] are all extremely dutiful. It’s like the theatre – if someone is ill, someone steps into their place, the understudy keeps the show going,’ she said.

‘She is the epitome of professionalism and public service. Everyone thinks she should be blubbing in a corner, but this is not what these people are made of. And it’s something we should aspire to.

Queen Camilla gets a hug from Rebecca Tessinari, 3, during a visit to the newly opened Meadows Community Centre in Cambridge on February 2, 2024

‘If you sit alone feeling sorry for yourself you will feel sad and tragic. But if you get up and do something with a smile, then you feel better. ‘

Best-selling thriller writer, Harlan Coben, agreed. ‘She’s a keeper, as we say in America,’ he enthused.

Meanwhile, the Queen further won over the hearts of the nation this year with her emotional display at commemorative events for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Camilla did not shy away from showing emotion as she joined Charles (who has returned to public duties), the Prince of Wales, UK politicians and veterans at major events in Portsmouth and Ver-sur-Mer in June.

The occasion was inevitably sombre, as shown by Her Majesty shedding a tear when listening to a veteran recount the horror of losing his best friend on the beaches in Normandy 80 years ago.

But amid the heavy and deeply moving testimonials, Camilla also shared heartfelt moments with multiple former soldiers, who smiled and enjoyed light conversation with the Queen.

So, from her displays of warmth and emotion, to her loyalty to her husband and sense of duty, Camilla’s year as the Royal Family’s leading lady has no doubt secured her position as a respected consort and comforting ‘grandmother figure’ to the nation.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle continue to live out in California as their royal insignificance grows

In contrast to his sister-in-law and his stepmother, Prince Harry has remained firmly on the outside of his father’s support network.

Alongside his wife Meghan Markle, the pair have continued to live in increasingly growing insignificance in the celebrity enclave of Montecito in California.

After hearing about his father’s shock cancer diagnosis in February he flew to London for a brief 45-minute meeting with Charles.

The King had called him personally to tell him the devastating news and the Duke immediately jumped on a plane so he could get to the UK as soon as possible.

It was hoped seemingly in vain that Harry’s return to Britain would help heal wounds with King Charles and be a chance to reach out to his William amid years of strained relations.

In contrast to his sister-in-law and his stepmother, Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have remained firmly on the outside of his father’s support network. Pictured together in 2018

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle video message at the inaugural Global Ministerial Conference on Violence Against Children in Colombia

But the Duke did not see his brother William or sister-in-law Kate, who at that time was recovering from her abdominal surgery and on extended leave.

Although very short, it was their first formal meeting in person since the late Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022.

The prince did attend Charles’s coronation at Westminster Abbey in May last year but was not seen interacting with the newly-crowned King and Queen.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex abandoned royal duties in early 2020 to live in the US.

Harry has been critical of his family in TV interviews and his book, Spare, which was published last year.

The bombshell book featured staggering insights into the prince’s relationship with his father and brother.

Harry has barely spoken with his father since the death of Queen Elizabeth.

In Spare, Harry had revealed that Charles had urged his warring sons: ‘Please boys, don’t make my final years a misery.’

But it seems despite his cancer, Charles’ sons have been unable to make amends, with them having reportedly not haven spoken in several years.

Meanwhile it is the women in Charles’ life, Princess Kate and Queen Camilla, who have stepped up to support him in his time of need.

The Princess of Wales, updated formally to confirm what admirers had long suspected. Now the Brisbane-born royal and her grace, dedication and poise is addressing a topic that has long been speculated by the public — once-and-for-all.

 

 

 

In what felt more like a promise of things to come than just an offhanded comment, Catherine created a stir amongst reporters today as she attended — under private engagement rules not for photographic publication — her annual general meeting with The Place2Be. While she did not delve into specifics, her words left no doubt that she is prepared to take on a more pivotal role alongside Prince William.

“For years, there’s been so much speculation about what Catherine truly envisions for her role in the royal family,” shared a royal insider. “Today, she left no room for doubt—she is ready to be a cornerstone of the monarchy’s future.”

This announcement aligns with recent reports highlighting Catherine’s increased responsibilities, from representing the Crown at key events to her charitable initiatives that have made a global impact. Many believe her confirmation signals an era where Catherine will be front and center, helping to modernize and guide the monarchy through a rapidly changing world.

Fans of the Princess of Wales have taken to social media to express their admiration, with many celebrating her as a symbol of stability and inspiration. “We always knew she was destined for greatness,” one supporter wrote.

As the royal family faces ongoing challenges, Catherine’s declaration offers a beacon of hope for those who look to her as a leader for the next generation. It’s clear that the Princess of Wales is not only ready to rise to the occasion but to redefine what it means to be a modern royal.

Meghan Markle’s Return to the UK: A Fight for Her Children’s Legacy Amid Royal Drama

 

What would you do if your children’s legacy was at stake? Meghan Markle might be pondering this very question as she reportedly plans a pivotal trip back to the UK. At the heart of her journey are her children, Archie Harrison and Lilibet Diana, whose royal titles now hang in the balance.

This high-stakes visit comes on the heels of a controversial decision by the British Parliament to revoke the royal titles of Prince Harry and Meghan’s children. While King Charles holds the final say, Meghan’s return signals her determination to secure her children’s place in the royal legacy. But will her efforts sway the monarch, or does this mark another step in the royal family’s move away from the Sussexes?

Imagine waking up to news that your children’s royal titles are at risk. That’s the reality Meghan and Harry now face. British Parliament recently passed a motion to revoke Archie and Lilibet’s titles, a decision that has sparked widespread debate.

Critics argue that royal titles should come with corresponding duties, not just perks. With Harry and Meghan residing in California and no longer fulfilling royal responsibilities, many Members of Parliament (MPs) felt the titles were unwarranted. The motion passed with a significant majority, signaling a shift in how the monarchy approaches non-working royals.

For Meghan, this is not just a matter of protocol—it’s deeply personal.

Without their titles, Archie and Lilibet stand to lose more than prestige. The titles connect them to their British heritage and solidify their place in royal history.

Is this unprecedented?

While royal titles have been revoked in the past, it is rare for such actions to involve children so young. As the dust settles, all eyes are on King Charles, whose decision will ultimately determine the outcome.

Meghan Markle’s Mission: A Mother’s Fight or Strategic Play?

Meghan’s reported return to the UK is being framed as a fight for her children’s future. But is this a genuine act of maternal determination or a calculated move to reshape the Sussex narrative?

Meghan has never shied away from standing up for her family. From speaking openly about mental health to addressing racial inequality, she has consistently championed her loved ones’ well-being. Sources suggest she plans to emphasize the significance of Archie and Lilibet’s titles as a connection to their royal lineage.

Critics, however, view this trip as a tactical maneuver. Securing the children’s titles could potentially garner public and royal sympathy, shifting the Sussexes’ public image after years of tension.

As the ultimate decision-maker, King Charles must balance his duties as a monarch with his role as a father.

The British public remains divided on the Sussexes. While some sympathize with Meghan and Harry, others view their actions as a betrayal. Supporting Parliament’s decision could reinforce the monarchy’s modernization efforts but risks further alienating his youngest son and grandchildren.

Charles has long struggled to navigate his dual roles. He might opt for a compromise, allowing Archie and Lilibet to retain their titles for ceremonial purposes. However, Meghan’s visit could influence his decision in unexpected ways.

The fate of Archie and Lilibet’s titles could redefine how the monarchy treats non-working royals.

If Meghan succeeds, Archie and Lilibet will retain their titles, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the Sussexes and the royal family.

If Charles upholds Parliament’s decision, the Sussexes may find themselves further estranged, with Archie and Lilibet losing their royal ties—a move that could impact their sense of identity.

What to Expect from Meghan’s Visit

Meghan’s return to the UK will undoubtedly attract global attention.

High-Stakes Meetings: Meghan is likely to meet with King Charles and senior royal advisors to make her case.

 

Media Frenzy: Every move will be scrutinized, fueling debates and headlines.
Diplomatic Challenges: The outcome could either rebuild bridges or deepen divisions within the royal family.
The Bigger Picture: What This Saga Says About the Modern Monarchy

 

This controversy highlights the evolving challenges facing the British monarchy.

Should royal titles be based on lineage, or should they require active participation in royal duties? Decisions like these will shape the monarchy’s relevance in the modern era.

King Charles’s choice will set a precedent for how non-working royals are treated. It could also influence the future of Prince William’s children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, as they navigate their own roles within the royal family.

The media’s portrayal of this drama plays a significant role in shaping public opinion.

UK tabloids often cast Meghan in a negative light, framing her actions as self-serving. Her visit will likely be scrutinized through a lens of skepticism.

In contrast, American outlets often paint Meghan and Harry as victims of an outdated institution. This disparity highlights the divide in public perception between the UK and the US.

At its core, this is a story of loyalty, identity, and the future of a centuries-old institution.

Private meetings could pave the way for reconciliation, offering a chance to mend fractured relationships.

Deep-seated grievances and relentless media scrutiny make meaningful dialogue challenging.

Meghan’s return to the UK marks a critical chapter in royal history. Whether she can convince King Charles to preserve her children’s titles remains uncertain. However, the outcome will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the Sussexes and the monarchy as a whole

Victoria Beckham was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13.

The fashion designer, 50, meant business as she pulled up to her Dover Street store  in her flashy £227,000 Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi.

The designer, 50, cut a chic figure in a red roll-neck jumper as she took a trip to her store in Dover Street, London.

Victoria paired her look with smart brown trousers and toted her belongings in a burgundy shoulder bag, all from her own fashion line.

Posh accessorised with a pair of black sunglasses, a burgundy belt and a gold Breitling watch.

Victoria walked out of her store in high spirits and made her way to her luxurious motor.

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Victoria Beckham was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13

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The designer, 50, cut a chic figure in a red roll-neck jumper as she took a trip to her store in Dover Street, London

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The fashion designer, 50, meant business as she pulled up to her Dover Street store in her flashy £227,000 Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi

The wife of David Beckham also made sure to keep her social media followers up to date with her day as she shared a video of her purchasing a new belt from her store.

She said to the camera: ‘So I’m here in 36 Dover Street doing a little bit of a shopping.

‘Just bought this new belt. A little tiny B Frame Belt which I’m obsessed with. My new red sweater, and my pants.’

Her outing comes just days after she admitted she ‘cares less’ about the idea of being famous now.

Victoria shot to fame alongside Geri Halliwell, Mel B, Emma Bunton and Melanie C as part of the Spice Girls in the late 1990s.

They became the best-selling girl group of all time, and Victoria later had a brief solo career before going on into the world of fashion.

But the star – who is also known for her marriage to footballer David Beckham – recently admitted that the idea of fame doesn’t really appeal now.

She told Harper’s Bazaar magazine: ‘I suppose it used to be fun to go out and be chased by paparazzi walking down Bond Street – and you would dress knowing you were going to get that. I don’t want that anymore.

Victoria Beckham shares glimpse of new outfit while shopping

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Victoria paired her look with smart brown trousers and toted her belongings in a burgundy shoulder bag from her own fashion line

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i She drove away in her Ferrari Roma Blu Pozzi, which retail for £227,000

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Victoria accessorised with a pair of black sunglasses, a burgundy belt and a gold Breitling watch

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The beauty walked out of her store in high spirits and made her way to her luxurious motor

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Victoria leaving her store in London

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The wife of David Beckham also made sure to keep her social media followers up to date with her day as she shared a video of her purchasing a new belt from her store

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Victoria was back in London on Friday after a whirlwind trip to Paris with her daughter Harper, 13 (pictured earlier this week)

‘I’ve been doing this too long. I suppose I did when I was growing up but, nowadays, there’s just too much going on; too busy; too many kids to worry about.

‘I woke up at 50, and I gave a s*** less.’

Victoria has Brooklyn, 25, Romeo, 22, Cruz, 19, as well as daughter old Harper with him, and her eldest has recently spoken out about being a nepo baby.

Brooklyn told Grazia: ‘Obviously I am one. But I couldn’t help how I was born, at all.’

While he understands why the public can feel irked by nepo babies, Brooklyn said he tries to ignore the ‘rubbish’ people say rather than dwell on it.

He added: ‘There’s always going to be people that say rubbish. But as long as you do something that makes you happy and you’re kind to people, that’s all that matters.’

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Victoria shot to fame alongside Geri Halliwell, Mel B, Emma Bunton and Melanie C as part of the Spice Girls in the late 1990s but recently admitted that the appeal of fame had worn off

Victoria Beckham shares behind the scenes look at her make up routine

‘I’m always gonna get it, no matter what I do. And I’m fine with that. It makes me work harder, because I’m like, I’m gonna prove these people wrong.’

Victoria recently named her latest handbag after her favourite restaurant, the Michelin-starred Dorian in Notting Hill.

Described as this year’s ‘It’ bag, the Dorian – priced from £590 for a ‘nano’ version and £1,250 for a croc embossed leather style – is already a favourite among celebrities, including US actress Sofia Vergara.

With its clean lines and elegant shape, it is unlikely to have been worn by its namesake, however – the flamboyant Dorien Green from TV show Birds Of A Feather, played by actress Lesley Joseph.

Victoria was spotted at Dorian again recently when she enjoyed a three-hour dinner date with hair stylist Ken Paves.

The Beckham family also popped in last month with son Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz, 29, while the couple were visiting London from Los Angeles.

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Victoria poses with her Dorian handbag. It costs from £590 for a ‘nano’ version and £1,250 for a croc embossed leather style

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Victoria Beckham visits her favourite restaurant so often that there is a parking space reserved for her. (Dorian Bistro in Notting Hill)

A source close to the family said: ‘Victoria absolutely loves Dorian. She loves the menu and the ambience.

‘She, David and the kids go there for all kinds of occasions but also just for a low-key dinner.

‘It’s their favourite. There is also a space usually saved for them to park outside if they drive there.’

After two failed cover attempts, the former Princess of Wales agreed to move forward “without seeking permission from the palace” this time

Princess Diana visits the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in London on July 1, 1992 and Linda Evangelista modeling French designer Michel Klein’s women’s 1992 spring-summer ready-to-wear line in Paris. Photo: Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images;  julio donoso/Sygma via Getty Images

There’s a story behind every magazine cover — and the December 1991 issue of British Vogue featuring Princess Diana is no exception.

How the cover came to be, as well as the late Princess of Wales’ friendship with then-British Vogue editor-in-chief Liz Tilberis, is covered in a recent episode of the podcast Blow Up: When Liz Tilberis Transformed Bazaar, a six-part series that examines the woman who went on to helm Harper’s Bazaar before her death in 1999 from ovarian cancer.

Princess Diana on the cover of the December 1991 issue of “British Vogue,” as shot by photographer Patrick Demarchelier.Patrick Demarchelier/Vogue Magazine

The Crown Star Elizabeth Debicki Recreates Princess Diana’s Iconic 1991 Vogue Cover for Radio Times

Long before that, though, was Diana’s 1991 British Vogue cover, which Tilberis orchestrated. The cover happened after two previous failed attempts, both of which were shot down by the palace, according to the podcast. But, when it came to the cover that finally took — shot by photographer Patrick Demarchelier and featuring a closeup of Diana with a short haircut, long nails and wearing a black turtleneck — none other than supermodel Linda Evangelista might have been the one to push it over the line and actually make Tilberis’ long-held dream happen.

In the fall of 1991 at a reception for the British Fashion Council Awards, Princess Diana asked Tilberis to introduce her to Evangelista.

“Diana had always wanted to meet Linda,” said Patrick Jephson, Diana’s former private secretary. “She was intrigued by the supermodels, because those girls were the superstars of the time. And she was intrigued as to how they coped with the fame, you know?”

Left to right, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, Gianni Versace, Claudia Schiffer and Carla Bruni in 1991. Gamma-Rapho via Getty

Diana, after all, did know a thing or two about being famous. When they met, “I think she asked us, Christy and Naomi, if we, if our diet was, like, McDonald’s and cigarettes,” Evangelista said. “At that point, it was whatever I wanted to eat, you know?”

Tilberis and Princess Diana’s hairstylist Sam McKnight hatched a plan for the four of them to have breakfast together at Joe’s Cafe, owned by a friend of Tilberis and attached to Joseph’s of London. “It was very trendy in Chelsea, where all the cool stores are,” McKnight said.

They wanted somewhere “where we can talk, we can all chat and giggle,” McKnight added. “And we don’t want anyone to see us. It was going to be a private thing. So Liz arranged for them to open the cafe early. Now, the princess would have been absolutely mortified if she had thought they had opened up just for her. So they had to kind of pretend they were open.”

Princess Diana and Liz Tilberis attend the Council of Fashion Designers of America Gala Ball in New York City.Antony Jones/UK Press via Getty Images

To make it not look like they had closed down just for Princess Diana, Tilberis and McKnight cast attractive people to sit at the tables of the cafe and pretend to be patrons — though they were really the staff of Joseph’s.  They were asked to sit at the cafe’s tables, “and so it looked like it was fancy,” McKnight said. (Princess Diana didn’t know about this ruse, nor did Evangelista, the latter revealed in the episode.)

“I was nervous because I really loved her and I respected her,” Evangelista said of the former Princess of Wales. “And then you meet her. I just remember how lovely she was. And we had some giggles, and she was, like, very open and honest.”

McKnight added of the sit-down, “There was no sort of world-changing chat. It was chit chat, you know — it was kind of giggling and gossiping.”

The secret mission of the cafe meetup, McKnight said, was for Tilberis to convince Diana to let her use the closeup shot taken by Demarchelier for the December 1991 cover.

A photograph of Princess Diana shot by Patrick Demarchelier that was turned down for the December 1990 cover of ‘British Vogue’ by the palace.

Tilberis had tried two times before to get Diana to appear on the cover of British Vogue. The first, an informal shot photographed by Demarchelier, was a black-and-white image of Diana playing with her sons Prince William and Prince Harry in a barn at the family’s country home, Highgrove. The palace said no to the cover. Later, British Vogue wanted to put a more formal shot of Diana in a tiara on its cover. The palace, again, said no.

“There was no explanation, but Liz had a feeling it was a way of reining in the princess, whose restlessness was becoming publicly apparent,” Blow Up co-host Cynthia True said.

At last, in Joe’s Cafe, it was an urge from Evangelista that pushed Diana over the line. By the end of their breakfast date, Diana said yes to appearing on the cover, “and told Liz to move forward with the chosen photo without seeking permission from the palace,” True said. “She would handle it.”

“And Liz got a magnificent cover,” McKnight said on the show. “And she did not force, she waited for it to organically happen, you know?”

Princess Diana speaking in January 1995 at the CFDA party in New York City.Pool Photograph/Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images

The December 1991 edition of British Vogue went on to become a bestseller, and featured Princess Diana on the cover of the magazine for the first time in 10 years. The following month, Tilberis was named editor-in-chief at Harper’s Bazaar.

Her friendship with Princess Diana certainly didn’t end after Tilberis finally landed her coveted Princess of Wales cover, though. The two met because British Vogue editors advised the Princess of Wales on her official wardrobe, and by the time Tilberis became editor-in-chief of the magazine in 1987 after the departure of Anna Wintour for Vogue’s American iteration, she and Diana were friends who had lunch together frequently, bonding over both being mothers of young boys.

The two took part in what the podcast called  “marathon phone calls” after Tilberis moved to New York City to accept the job at Harper’s Bazaar in 1992. “Liz was, I would say, kind of like a big sister-ish figure, a big sister that accepted Diana as she was,” Jephson said.

After Tilberis’ ovarian cancer diagnosis in 1993, according to the episode, Princess Diana was one of the first to call when she was out of the hospital and stayed in touch with her almost every day, either by phone or via a handwritten note transmitted by fax.

“She called a lot and they would have a lot of chats,” said Tilberis’ former assistant Stephanie Albertson. “That was a very real friendship, and I remember once she called and the message was, ‘I’m just watching a movie with the kids.’ And what did she say? She said something like, ‘I’m sitting in bed eating popcorn with the kids — just have her call me back.’ ”

Princess Diana at Eton for Prince William’s first day there on Sept. 6, 1995. Tom Wargacki/WireImage

As Tilberis underwent chemotherapy, “Diana distracted her with light gossip about mutual acquaintances in London, and Liz ignored the frequent call waiting beeps,” according to True. “ ‘What’s that?’ the princess asked. When Liz explained, Diana sounded relieved. In England, she said it would be MI5. The Ministry of Intelligence was rumored at that time to have bugged the princess’ phone.”

According to Jephson, “A lot of what I saw in the friendship between Liz and Diana was an acceptance of there being no need to be anything other than yourself. And for Diana, that was refreshing and different and rare, because she didn’t have the kind of husband or partner that luckier people have in whose presence she could relax and be herself. So when she had a friend like Liz, who didn’t expect her to be anything more than she was, who didn’t want her to be anything other than happy and relaxed, this was, I think, a weight lifted from her shoulders.”

For Tilberis’ part, according to True, she said there were very few people, apart from Diana, who knew how to talk to someone with a cancer diagnosis.

Princess Diana and Liz Tilberis attending the 1996 Met Gala.Stephane Cardinale/Sygma via Getty Images

Princess Diana Refused to Wear Pink and ‘Ripped the Corset’ from Met Gala Dress, John Galliano Says

When it came to photographing Diana for British Vogue, Tilberis felt that previous portraits of her for the magazine were too formal, failing to capture the warm, funny woman Tilberis knew so well. They shared a sense of humor, and at one of their many lunches, when Tilberis complimented Diana on her Chanel loafers, Diana answered dryly that the entwined Cs of the fashion house’s logo stood for Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles, who were by now known to be romantically involved, something Princess Diana was perhaps more aware of than most anyone.

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When Tilberis won an award at the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), Princess Diana honored her friend in a speech in New York City in January 1995. Tilberis then accompanied Princess Diana at what would become her one and only Met Gala appearance, which took place in December 1996 with the newly divorced Diana wearing Dior. Though it was widely known that Tilberis was ill, absolutely no one would have expected that Diana would die before her dear friend, losing her life as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident on Aug. 31, 1997 at just 36 years old — two years before Tilberis herself died of cancer at 51 years old on April 21, 1999.

Dozens of turkeys, hams, cakes, cheeses, mince pies, vintage champagne and fine wines – no corners are cut when the shopping list for the royal Christmas get-together is compiled. Queen Elizabeth II’s former chef Darren McGrady catered for Christmas at Sandringham frequently in the 80s and 90s and spoke to OK! about his time running the kitchen.

“They’ve always been very traditional, so the royals eat the same things every year. They’re no different to most families in not wanting to mess around with the food at Christmas,” he explans. The festive feasting has always begun on Christmas Eve, with the family arriving at Sandringham in time for an afternoon tea of dainty sandwiches and cake.

The Royal Family will eat Christmas dinner at Sandringham House ( 
Image:
Getty Images)

After the customary exchange of presents, the evening revolves around a formal banquet in the dining room. Assisted by five other chefs, Darren would cater for up to 20 of the senior royals, as well as the children and about 100 staff members.

“For the Christmas Eve dinner we’d serve a fish course, salad and then often venison from the Sandringham estate,” he tells us. “Dessert was typically a tarte tatin or chocolate perfection pie, which Queen Elizabeth loved. Chocolate was one of her biggest weaknesses.”

The drinks offering is a carefully planned ritual, too. “They would always start with gin and Dubonnet in the early evening, and then the Yeoman of the Royal Cellar would serve champagnes and fine wines at dinner.”

The royals would raise their glasses during the festive season ( 
Image:
AFP via Getty Images)
During mealtimes, a series of rules are rigorously observed. Darren recalls, “No one sat down until the Queen came in, and nobody began eating until she did. As soon as she put her knife and fork down, that course was over and we’d start clearing away. Dinner service is run to military precision.” He believes certain regulations are likely to remain in place now King Charles is at the head of the table.

“I’ve done state banquets for many US presidents – including Reagan and Clinton – and the same rules apply,” he explains. “Although we may now have a more modern King, I think things will still be formal and Charles will keep a lot of the customs going.”

After dinner on Christmas Eve, Darren had another important role. “As soon as I’d served the coffee, I’d rush upstairs and change because I was resident DJ for the staff disco, and I’d spin the decks from 10pm until 1am. One year, Princess Diana turned up with Princess Margaret’s daughter Sarah Armstrong-Jones!”

The former royal chef revealed details of how the royals celebrate Christmas ( 
Image:
Bettmann Archive)
Of course, Christmas Day is the main event, and for the royals it tends to begin with a cooked breakfast for the men, with the women eating continental breakfasts in their bedrooms while getting ready for the day ahead.

Revealing some of the family quirks, Darren says, “The Queen Mother would insist on bringing her own china, and Charles always liked to have a pair of freshly poached plums from Highgrove, served in a little finger bowl. He’d also have a box of assorted muesli, dried fruits and honey.”

The family are seated for Christmas lunch at 1.15pm sharp, with local Norfolk-reared turkey the star attraction. “They’d always have roast turkey and chestnut stuffing, with mashed and roast potatoes, plus lots of vegetables like parsnips and carrots.”

Certain ingredients were off-limits. “We never used garlic when cooking for the Queen – it was considered antisocial,” says Darren. “We had to avoid strong onions too, because the monarch doesn’t want to be breathing that on people.”

The Royal Family’s Christmas is surprisingly ordinary ( 
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In all, six turkeys would be prepped and cooked. “Two for the royal dining room, one for the nursery and three more for the staff dining room,” says Darren. It was non-stop for us in the kitchen from 6am until around 2.30pm, when the chefs sat down and ate lunch. We’d finish just in time to watch the Queen’s speech.”

Darren was not a fan of seeing the royal children – then comprising Zara and Peter Phillips, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, and Princes William and Harry – eating in the nursery without their parents.

He says, “It’s just royal tradition, and what they did whenever the Queen was present. But in later years I think that’s why William and Kate chose to eat Christmas lunch at Anmer Hall, because they didn’t want to be separated from their children.”

The Royal Family have many special Christmas traditions ( 
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While many of the traditions are likely to be the same today, Charles may be even stricter on the sourcing of produce than in previous years. “The King will definitely insist on organic food,” Darren says. “He’ll also want local, indigenous produce which is in season rather than shipped in. So there will be no strawberries on the menu on Christmas Day.”

Though today’s royals are likely to have individual dietary requirements, that was not the case for Darren and his team. “In those days, nobody wanted gluten-free, dairy-free, or lactose-free.

“The attitude was that you were dining with the Queen, so you had whatever was on your plate. If you didn’t like it, you didn’t eat. It was as simple as that.” Most festive feasts end with a flaming Christmas pudding, and the royals typically enjoy their own bespoke variety.

The Royal Family have many special Christmas traditions ( 
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“The puddings were made in London before we went up to Sandringham, which meant we were well ahead of the game,” says Darren. “Because everything was always so organised, it was never a stressful experience.”

After all the eating, the royals like to walk around the estate in order to sharpen the appetite for afternoon tea – which includes sandwiches, mince pies and plenty of naughty treats. “The whole family used to devour our chocolate Yule log, and we’d make three Christmas cakes too,” reveals Darren.

As if that weren’t enough, an evening spread of cold meats, chutneys, cheeses and biscuits is served, too. “Harrods were the royal purveyors then, and they’d send a huge hamper containing things like foie gras en croute and beautiful whole stiltons for the Christmas night buffet,” says Darren. “There was certainly never a shortage of good things to eat.”