The BBC has unveiled a never-before-seen photograph of King Charles getting ready for his coronation as part of an upcoming documentary exploring his first year on the throne.
In the image below, the King appears immensely proud, dressed in a suit and tie, adorned with a golden robe as he rehearses for his coronation—the first in Britain in 70 years. The photo was taken at Westminster Abbey, featuring the King seated in his coronation chair.
A unique 90-minute documentary, titled “Charles III: The Coronation Year,” is set to air in the BBC’s festive schedule next month. Exclusive access to the King and Queen Camilla was granted to the camera crews for this episode.
The documentary will trace significant moments in Charles’s inaugural year as monarch, encompassing the lead-up to his coronation, the ceremony itself, and subsequent events. Contributions from the Royal Household and the royal family add depth to the narrative.
Highlighted moments include a state visit from South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, the King’s leadership during national mourning for his late mother, the Queen, and participation in events like Remembrance Sunday services, Trooping the Colour, and his inaugural state visit to Germany.
The BBC promises a documentary with “moments of great poignancy and humor,” offering a “unique perspective on the inner workings behind a defining moment marking a new era in the history of the monarchy.”
Simon Young, the BBC’s head of history and factual commissioning, emphasized the film’s focus on a man stepping into a long-awaited role. He stated, “This film captures a behind-the-scenes view of the King and his coronation, the likes of which has never been seen before.” Helena Bonham Carter, known for her portrayal of Princess Margaret in Netflix’s The Crown, will narrate the documentary.
Following a significant moment, King Charles hosted South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yoel during the politician’s state visit to the UK this week.
A highlight of the visit was a state banquet on Tuesday evening, attended by Charles, Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Princess Royal—all in white-tie attire.
The King, aged 75, donned a white tie with decorations and a full set of miniature medals, including the Garter Star and the Thistle Star, formerly belonging to his grandmother, the Queen Mother.
Notably, he wore the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea’s highest national order, presented by President Yoon Suk Yeol during the gift exchange at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday.
