King Charles III had to keep calm after a phone call with news he didn’t want to hear
King Charles III ascended to the throne in September 2022, following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Despite the complexities surrounding the royal succession, Charles embraced his role with dedication, even as he faced scrutiny over his personal health, now more so with his cancer. Now, in the final months of 2024, the King continues his public duties while grappling with the challenges of leading the British monarchy in a rapidly changing world. Recently, the King and Queen Camilla have been in Australia and Samoa performing spiritual rituals of the Samoan culture.
King Charles last moment with his mother
In the last days of Queen Elizabeth’s life, Charles received a deeply disturbing phone call. The Queen’s health was deteriorating rapidly, and on the evening of September 7, 2022, her condition became critical. According to Robert Hardman in his book “Charles III: New King. New Court,” King Charles received a frank warning from his trusted advisor, Sir Clive Alderton, who, along with Princess Anne, urged him to return to Balmoral immediately. The words, “Think how you would feel if you never said goodbye,” weighed heavily on Charles as he made his way back. At the time, he was more than 150 miles away on official business in Ayrshire, Scotland, and that call marked the beginning of a swift and somber journey to be with his mother in her final hours.
The day after this urgent call, Charles, accompanied by Camilla, traveled by helicopter to Balmoral and informed close family members, including Prince William and Prince Harry, of the Queen’s deteriorating condition. Charles’ arrival at Balmoral was followed by a brief visit to his mother’s bedside, but he was not present for her final moments. It was while he was away to clear his mind that he received the news of her death. The somber moment cemented his transition to king, as he was addressed as “Your Majesty” for the first time, marking a profound change in both his personal life and that of the United Kingdom.
King Charles shares why Queen Elizabeth “chose” to spend her final days in Scotland. pic.twitter.com/5yljaeSLey
— E! News (@enews) October 1, 2024
According to the Mirror, Sir Clive Alderton has been a central figure in Charles’s life and reign. Known for his keen intellect and forthright approach, Sir Clive has advised Charles and Queen Camilla since 2006. Before serving as the King’s private secretary, Alderton built an impressive diplomatic career, including roles as Britain’s ambassador to Morocco and posts in Poland, Belgium and France. Often described as a “hatchet man” for his direct communication style, Sir Clive is known for handling sensitive matters with the utmost tact. As Charles assumed his role as King, Sir Clive’s presence provided both counsel and continuity, helping Charles navigate the responsibilities of the monarchy.
Royal family updates
As of today, the British royal family faces ongoing complexities. Prince Harry and Prince William remain estranged, and public interest in their relationship has only increased, although William publicly mentioned his brother for the first time in years. Kate Middleton’s health has suffered recently, although she continues to perform her duties as Princess of Wales. King Charles, though facing health problems, continues in his role, aided by loyal aides such as Sir Clive Alderton.
King Charles III, then Prince of Wales, deals with shots fired at him in Sydney in 1994. pic.twitter.com/vlDJUvieYN
— Bobbie (@bo66ie29) July 14, 2024
