Former Butler Stunned by Charles' Post-Coronation Choice

The Butler’s Insight into King Charles III’s Regnal Name Choice

The former butler of King Charles has shared his thoughts on the monarch's decision to adopt the regnal name Charles III instead of George VII. This revelation came as a surprise to many, including those who closely followed the royal family.

When a monarch ascends the throne, they have the freedom to choose any of their given names as their official title. For King Charles, whose full name is Charles Philip Arthur George, this choice was particularly significant. During the launch of his book The Royal Butler: My Remarkable Life of Royal Service, Grant Harrold, who served the then Prince of Wales from 2004 to 2011, provided insight into why the king chose Charles over other options.

Harrold mentioned that he had a conversation with the king about titles and the customs surrounding them. He explained that during discussions with colleagues, they were all convinced the king would become George VII. However, this did not happen, and Harrold admitted he was surprised by the final decision.

One possible reason for the choice of Charles III could be related to the king's grandson, Prince George. As the second in line to the throne after Prince William, it may have been a gesture to allow the next generation to carry the name George. Harrold suggested that the king might have felt it would be a meaningful way to honor his grandson, allowing him to take on the title of George VII.

Another factor that influenced the decision may have been the historical legacy of previous kings named Charles. Charles II was known for his womanizing, while Charles I lost his head after being tried and convicted of treason. These associations could have played a role in the king’s choice, as he wanted to avoid any negative connotations linked to the name Charles.

King Charles became the monarch on September 8, 2022, following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. His ascension to the throne was immediate, as the Crown automatically passes to the heir in the UK. Since taking the throne, the king has continued to uphold traditions set by his predecessors.

This year, King Charles commemorated the anniversary of his accession quietly at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, where his mother passed away at the age of 96. This follows a custom similar to that of his late mother, who spent her accession day at Sandringham House in Norfolk, the place where her father, King George VI, died in 1952.

The choice of regnal name is more than just a formality; it reflects the values, history, and future aspirations of the monarchy. King Charles’s decision to take the name Charles III highlights his connection to the past while also considering the legacy he wishes to leave for the future.