King Charles III ascended the British throne in September 2022, becoming the oldest monarch in history to do so at age 73. As the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, his life has been marked by significant public service, intense scrutiny, and a growing influence. This article provides an in-depth view of King Charles III’s family background, career origins, key relationships, controversies, financial aspects of his reign, and recent developments.
Early Life and Family Background
Charles Philip Arthur George was born on November 14, 1948, at Buckingham Palace, London. He is the eldest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Becoming heir apparent at the tender age of 3, following his mother’s accession to the throne in 1952, Charles was steeped in royal tradition and public expectation from an early age. His siblings include Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.
He attended Hill House School, Cheam School, and Gordonstoun in Scotland, and he also studied abroad in Australia. His upbringing combined rigorous education with royal duties, cultivating a strong sense of service.
Career Origins and Achievements
Charles’s career path included military service beginning in 1969, serving in the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, and Army. Trained as a jet pilot, he carried out various military roles before stepping fully into royal duties.
Notably, as the longest-serving Prince of Wales before ascending to the throne, Charles has championed numerous causes, particularly environmentalism, a commitment that dates back to the 1970s. He founded influential organisations such as the Prince’s Trust and Prince’s Foundation. His advocacy for organic farming, architecture, and climate change awareness positioned him as a forward-thinking royal.
Upon the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, Charles became King Charles III. His coronation took place in May 2023.
Family and Relationships
King Charles III was married twice. His first marriage was to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. They had two sons, Prince William (born 1982) and Prince Harry (born 1984). The marriage was fraught with difficulties and public controversies, ending in divorce in 1996. Diana tragically died in a car accident in 1997.
In 2005, Charles married Camilla Parker Bowles, who became Queen Consort upon his ascension. Their relationship has evolved in the public eye from initial controversy to acceptance.
King Charles’s relationship with his sons, particularly Prince William and Prince Harry, has been the subject of media attention. Recent reports confirm a strong bond with William, who is next in line for the throne, while tensions with Harry have been more complex, though there are signs of potential reconciliation.
Controversies
Charles’s life has not been without controversy. The most public were his marital infidelities during his first marriage and the subsequent fallout. Beyond personal matters, Charles has been criticised for political lobbying through the “black spider memos”, letters he sent to government officials that revealed his attempts to influence political decisions, raising questions about royal impartiality.
His strong advocacy of alternative medicine and some environmental policies has sometimes met with scepticism.
Revenue and Crown Estate
King Charles’s financial interests include the Crown Estate, a public asset managed on behalf of the monarchy. The Crown Estate reported a net profit of £1.15 billion (about $1.57 billion) in the fiscal year 2024-2025, with offshore wind farm leases as its major revenue contributor. This income helps fund the royal family’s public expenses, with profits directed to the UK Treasury.
Recent News and Developments
King Charles remains active in his duties despite health challenges, including a brief hospitalisation due to side effects of cancer treatment. In 2025, he addressed various national and international events, notably speaking at the Canadian Parliament during challenging geopolitical times.
Additionally, Charles has publicly conveyed shock and condemnation over tragic events such as the Manchester Synagogue attack, demonstrating his engagement with social issues.
The monarchy is also navigating evolving family dynamics, with reconciliation efforts among family members and adjustments to public roles, notably with his son, William, ascending to the role of Prince of Wales.
FAQs About King Charles III
When did Charles become King?
Charles became King Charles III on September 8, 2022, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Who are King Charles III’s children?
His sons are Prince William, Prince of Wales, and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex.
What controversies has King Charles faced?
Notable controversies include marital infidelities, political lobbying revealed in the “Black Spider Memos,” and debated views on alternative medicine.
What is the Crown Estate?
The Crown Estate is a vast portfolio of land and seabed holdings that is managed commercially, with the profits supporting the monarchy and the UK Treasury.
How is King Charles involved in environmental issues?
He has been a long-time environmental advocate, promoting organic farming, climate action, and sustainable architecture.
What is the relationship like between King Charles and Prince William?
Their relationship is reported as strong and supportive, with shared visions for the monarchy’s future.
Has King Charles’s health been a concern?
He experienced a brief hospital stay in 2025 related to cancer treatment side effects but continues active royal duties.
