It’s been an unusual few days for King Charles. For one thing, a seagull pooped on the royal during a trip to Northern Ireland. On top of that, a radio station mistakenly reported that the regal 77-year-old had passed away.
The Radio Station Explained the Error and Apologized
Just to be clear, as far as we know, King Charles is fine. However, he “was mistakenly declared dead by a UK radio station Tuesday in a shocking on-air blunder that left listeners stunned,” Page Six explained.
“This is Radio Caroline. We have suspended our normal programmes until further notice as a mark of formal respect following the passing of His Majesty King Charles III,” the Essex-based station reported on air, according to The Telegraph.
“His Majesty King Charles III has passed away. As a mark of respect we will now be playing suitable continuous music until further notice,” the message continued, per The Telegraph. “The news media has confirmed that his Majesty King Charles III has passed away. Consequently, as a mark of respect Radio Caroline is suspending its normal programmes.”
Page Six notes that “God Save the King” was then played by the radio station, “before [it] fell silent for roughly 15 minutes.”
After those at Radio Caroline realized what had happened, they shared a Facebook post that explained the mistake and apologized for the mishap.
Station Manager Peter Moore wrote, “Due to a computer error at our main studio, the death of a monarch procedure, which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require, was accidentally activated on Tuesday afternoon (May 19), mistakenly announcing that HM the King had passed away.”
“Radio Caroline then fell silent as would be required, which alerted us to restore programming and issue an on-air apology,” the message continued. “Caroline has been pleased to broadcast Her Majesty the Queen’s, and now the King’s, Christmas message, and we hope to do so for many years to come. We apologise to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused.”
What Will Happen When King Charles Passes Away?
GettyAlthough King Charles has not passed away, you might be wondering what will happen when that does eventually occur.
Grazia explains that “there are official plans in place, as there were when Queen Elizabeth died in 2022. For King Charles, the codename for how officials will respond is Operation Menai Bridge, and it is a detailed plan of the events that have to happen when a monarch dies.”
When King Charles passes, the royal family will be told first, followed by the Prime Minister, and then the press and public. Grazia adds that a “note announcing King Charles’ passing will also be pinned to the gates of Buckingham Palace, with flags lowered to half-mast.”
CanvaKing Charles’ body will then be taken to Westminster Abbey to “lie in state,” which will give the public an opportunity to “pay their respects,” per Grazia.
As soon as King Charles is gone, Prince William will immediately be given his father’s title and will take the throne, while Princess Catherine will become the Queen Consort. An official coronation will happen months later, on a date that is deemed appropriate.
