King Charles displayed his well-known sense of humour during a meeting with Hollywood star Vanessa Williams at the Royal Variety Show, where he cheekily referenced her difficulty performing a magic trick.
Royal encounter with a touch of humour
The monarch, who is expected to maintain a professional demeanour, often lets his playful side emerge during engagements. At the Royal Variety Show, Vanessa Williams—best known for her roles in The Devil Wears Prada and Ugly Betty—performed a magic trick with Penn and Teller. However, she struggled to open a padlock during the act.
Recalling the moment to Hello! Magazine, Williams said: “When I did the Royal Variety Show, I did a quick magic trick with Penn and Teller, and I had to open up a padlock, and I had a little trouble getting it open, so he (the King) mentioned: 'You had a little trouble getting that lock open,' but that was the only cheeky thing that was said.”
A lifelong royal fan
Williams, speaking at Wimbledon, expressed her admiration for the Royal Family, which dates back to her childhood. She said: “I watched Diana's wedding to King Charles—I was in high school at the time—we all got up at four in the morning to watch it live so the fact that I got to follow in her footsteps, shake royalty's hands, is a dream come true.” She also noted her recent attendance at Royal Ascot, where she saw the King arrive, describing it as “incredible.”
King Charles' playful reputation
This is not the first instance of the monarch's cheeky humour. Reports indicate that he often displays this trait at home with family and staff, and is even known for pulling pranks on staff members. His sense of humour is said to be inherited from his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who was also famous for her sharp wit.
