The Most Iconic Photos Of King Charles’ Royal Life

East Asia Tour

In 2008, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall toured East Asia. Before they began their tour, they walked down the red carpet. He toured Southeast Asia and India, though he left out Myanmar because of the growing violence and political unrest the country faced at the time. In regards to Myanmar, Rights campaigners like Mark Farmaner, director of the UK Burma Campaign, claimed “To have someone of Prince Charles’s stature go to visit the country would be seen as a reward, and giving legitimacy to the government and the military that are currently violating international law.” The 11-day tour began in Malaysia and finished in India (via Reuters).

The Big Wedding

Not only have many fans of the Royal Family watched Charles grow up, but we’ve watched his son, William, grow up as well. In 2011, William married Duchess Kate at Westminister Abbey. William involved his dad as much as possible, and in May 2020, Charles admitted he helped select the music. In an interview, he said, “was quite understanding and was perfectly happy for me to suggest a few pieces for their wedding” (via US Magazine).

Traditional Games

King Charles and his mother, Queen Elizabeth, spent time together watching the traditional games at Braemar Highland Gathering in September 2018. Throughout the years, we’ve seen their family attend the Braemar games every year, for several decades. On this day in particular, they opened The Duke Of Rothesay Highland Games Pavillion, a special exhibition showcasing the Scottish Highland games (via People).

Appearing With Prince Philip

In this photo, Charles appears with his father, Prince Philip. Charles assumed the throne when his beloved mother Queen Elizabeth passed away. She was loved the world over and her passing left a huge void in not just the UK but the world overall. Eight months following his ascension to the throne, Charles had his coronation. He seems to know the impact she had and the burden he now carries. Because of this, he issued a heartfelt thank you to his people online.

In an Instagram post, he said, “To those who joined in the celebrations — whether at home, at street parties and lunches, or by volunteering in communities — we thank you, everyone. To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible Coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms, and the Commonwealth.” If you participated in the celebration, King Charles wants to make sure you know he thanks you.

Positive For Coronavirus

2020 was a difficult year for everyone in the world, including King Charles. The Clarence House confirmed he contracted COVID in March 2020 with the rest of the world. Even Charles wasn’t immune. Luckily, Charles didn’t suffer any ill effects from the virus and recovered quickly (via US Magazine).

Father Son Dispute

It’s not always smooth sailing between family members, and King Charles is not immune to that. In March 2021, Charles and his son, Harry, had a lot of issues to work through. Charles stopped taking Harry’s calls after he exited the Royal Family in 2020. He said. “I feel really let down because he’s been through something similar, he knows what pain feels like. Archie is his grandson. I will always love him. There’s a lot of hurt that’s happened. I will continue to make it one of my priorities to heal that relationship.” Let’s hope the two can overcome whatever they’re going through to reconcile and form a beautiful relationship (via US Magazine).

The Final Coronation

On May 6th, 2023, King Charles made British history by being labeled as King during his coronation. He served as a prince for over 70 years, but only recently he stepped forward and earned a title most of the world will never come to know. The celebration took place in Westminster Abbey, London. Of all of King Charles’s impressive accomplishments during his life, this one is the most impressive and notable (via US Magazine).