At noon, under a gray London sky, Prince William and Princess Anne addressed the nation, confirming that King Charles III had passed away peacefully at 76. William, visibly emotional, announced the death of his father, bringing a sudden close to the reign of a monarch dedicated to environmental causes, interfaith dialogue, and modernizing the monarchy.
Princess Anne reflected on her father’s life, praising his duty, wisdom, and love for his people, highlighting both the public and private dimensions of the loss. Flags were lowered to half-mast, and citizens laid flowers and paid quiet tribute outside royal residences.
Following protocol, Prince William immediately became King William V, assuming the responsibilities of the Crown while guiding the nation through mourning. Tributes poured in from world leaders, faith communities, and across the Commonwealth.
The nation paused to honor a monarch remembered for his devotion to service, continuity, and compassion, while the new King faces the delicate balance of grieving his father and leading the monarchy into the future.