While Prince Charles automatically became King Charles III following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, the title just got a little more official.
On September 10, Charles was formally proclaimed King by the Accession Council in front of Prince William, Camilla, Queen Consort, and key members of the British parliament at St. James Palace. In a historic turn of events, this is the first time the ceremony has been televised.
During the first part of the ceremony, the Principal Proclamation read from the balcony overlooking Friary Court. “The crown of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is solely and rightfully come to the Prince Charles Philip Arthur George,” the clerk to the council read, per People. “We… do now hereby with one voice and consent of tongue and heart publish and proclaim that the Prince Charles Philip Arthur George is now by the death of our late Sovereign of happy memory become our only lawful and rightful liege lord, Charles III.”
Following the ceremony and the signing of the Accession Proclamation, King Charles stood in front of the throne to address the Council. “I know how deeply you, the entire Nation—and I think I may say the whole world—sympathize with me in the irreparable loss we have all suffered,” Charles said regarding his late mother. “It is the greatest consolation to me to know of the sympathy expressed by so many to my sister and brothers and that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family in our loss.”
Speaking of Queen Elizabeth’s reign as “unequaled in its duration, its dedication, and its devotion,” Chares added, “Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life. I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of Sovereignty which have now passed to me.”
