Emotional reason King Charles broke major protocol for Kate Middleton at Trooping the Colour
ArchiveFirst published June 15, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
King Charles’ official birthday parade, Trooping the Colour, takes place this Saturday (June 14) in London, drawing huge crowds to celebrate the monarch. The tradition, which includes a grand military procession and the famous royal balcony moment, has marked the sovereign’s birthday for over 260 years.
Last year’s event stood out for a touching reason. Despite strict royal rules about balcony placements, King Charles broke protocol so Kate Middleton could stand beside him instead of Prince William. At the time, both Charles and Kate were undergoing cancer treatment, and this subtle gesture showed unity and support.
Former royal butler Grant Harrold explained, “The balcony is all orchestrated but I feel the King told Kate, ‘You stand next to me.’” Usually, the Prince and Princess of Wales stand together, and the King stays beside Queen Camilla.
This year’s celebrations will again feature the royal family and a dramatic RAF flypast. Fans are eager to see which royals join the King on the palace balcony — a moment symbolizing resilience and family strength.
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