King Charles III is officially king of England – now what? If you’re familiar with the royal family, you may already know his duties and who’s next in line. If not, you may be surprised at just how fascinating the English monarchy is. Here’s the scoop on the new king, his family, his duties, and everything else that’s intriguing.
I remember the day just like it was yesterday – although the date was officially July 29, 1981. As a nine-year-old little girl, I woke up especially early, made my way downstairs to the console television in our living room, and, lying on my stomach, devoured everything that could be found on live TV about Prince Charles and Lady Diana’s wedding. I watched as she floated down the aisle, giggled at her vows when she recited Charles’ name incorrectly and stared in awe at the carriage processional after the wedding was over.
To this day, I remember the quote the Archbishop of Canterbury made during the wedding, “Here is the stuff of which fairy tales are made — a prince and princess on their wedding day.” And, for me, he was exactly right. Being brought up with English heritage from my mother’s side, the House of Windsor was always at the forefront of conversation. It was right then and there that the new Princess became my hero.
Fast forward to nearly 17 years ago when my husband gave me my engagement ring – a gold and sapphire replica of Princess Diana’s ring. Not only is it an unusual wedding here in the States (it’s not a diamond solitaire), it receives compliments almost daily on its beauty. And it really is a stunner.
Still, my fascination with England’s royals hasn’t waned. I have countless books, magazines, and images of the royals kept in a safe place to avoid dust, use my Queen Victoria china teacup for, what else, hot tea, and with every new wedding, birth, divorce (sadly), and death announcement, I’m still that same girl hanging on the words of the press for details.
The next chapter in the House of Windsor is King Charles’ (or, without looking it up, Charles Philip Arthur George… I told you I knew all the details!) reign. Here’s what we know so far and what’s next to come.
King Charles III – The Basics
Charles Philip Arthur George, born November 14, 1948, is not only the king of the United Kingdom but 14 additional commonwealths, including Australia, Canada, Jamaica, and Grenada. He officially became king when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, passed away on September 8, 2022; his official coronation occurred on May 6, 2023 (yes, I watched it over and over).
When he became king, he inherited not only massive amounts of property and real estate but the crown jewels, his mother’s fortune, and additional titles. He also earned another title – at 73, he’s the oldest monarch ever crowned in British history.
Initially married to Princess Diana (And that’s all I have to say about that.), he married Camila Parker-Bowles on April 9, 2005, making her Queen Consort (in a nutshell, she married a man that is either already king or king to be) upon Elizabeth’s death as well as the stepmother to Prince William and Prince Harry.
As succession goes, the firstborn child of a king and queen becomes the first in line, and, with the addition of children, each becomes next in line. If and when the first in line has a family, those children bump up to the next in line. As it stands now, the line of succession is Prince William & Princess Catherine to Prince George (their firstborn son) to Princess Charlotte to Prince Louis. Then comes Prince Harry and his children.
So, if something were to happen to Charles, Prince William would be the next in line to take the throne. Camila would step down, as she’s Queen Consort, and be considered the Queen Mum-ish(she may get a different title as she’s the stepmother. We’ll see.). She would still be considered a royal but would have no official authority.
Oh, and if you really want a fun tidbit of information about the new king, when signing his name as a prince, it was simply “Charles.” Now that he’s king, his new signature is “Charles R.” The “R” stands for “Rex,” which translates to king in Latin. Super cool!
Another fun fact is all about a massive day called Trooping of the Colour (spelled with a U) – his birthday is now an official holiday and will be celebrated with a grand military ceremony. Why is it called such? Traditionally, it was to showcase the official military colors and uniforms.
King Charles III’s Jobs and Responsibilities
Just like his mother, his responsibilities will remain the same. As Head of State (a public persona who officially embodies a State in its unity and legitimacy), he’s now responsible for officially opening each new Parliament session (while remaining strictly neutral), approving orders and proclamations of the Royal Privy Council, and granting Royal Assent to legislation. He’s also a living symbol of the United Kingdom and commonwealths, so he’ll have his image on the currency of each.
He’ll keep busy by receiving foreign heads of state and entertaining them, as is customary, by assuming a host role while visiting his country. On a darker note, should there be a time of crisis or mourning, his job will be to address his people and provide information. On the other side of the coin, he’ll also be addressing England during holidays and celebrations.
Much different from the United States, King Charles III is now the Head of the Church of England. As the official ‘Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England,’ his duties will include appointing Archbishops, Bishops, and church Deans.
And lastly, for this article, the monarchy contributes and supports hundreds of charities, public service organizations, and military associations, so making appearances as a royal patron not only provides them with publicity but also sheds light on worthy causes in the hopes of gaining volunteers.
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