Queen Camilla's friend Gyles Brandreth has opened up about how she truly feels about taking on her 'huge' public role alongside King Charles. Camilla, who turned 79 on July 17, married Charles in 2005 and initially held the title Duchess of Cornwall before becoming Queen upon his ascension.
Camilla's Prior Life Without a Career
Before becoming a senior royal, Camilla was described as 'very happy' without a career, enjoying a quiet life where she could 'potter' and pursue her interests. Author Catherine Mayer, who knows the Queen, told Hello! magazine: 'This is a woman who really was very happy not having a career, and who liked to potter and do things that interested her, and now suddenly she has this huge role. She's lived a lot of her life in different directions to most of us.'
Adjusting to a Demanding Role
Former MP and podcaster Gyles Brandreth, a close friend of the Queen, noted that unlike most people her age, Camilla and Charles have to 'wind up' rather than slow down. He explained: 'You might think she could slow down, but they are having to quicken the pace. But I never get the impression that she is doing it reluctantly.'
Family Celebrations and Future Plans
Brandreth also shared that Camilla's birthdays are typically family affairs. 'I don't think she sees birthdays as a big deal, but family is very important to her, so that is her kind of celebration,' he said. When asked about turning 80 next year, she reportedly pulls a face and says, 'Thank you for reminding me.' He added: 'I think the truth is, she's in a good place, though when you say to her, 'Well done, it's going so well,' she shrugs and says, 'Well, on we go.''
Renewed Pledge to Children's Literacy
Last week, Buckingham Palace announced that Camilla would renew her commitment to children's literacy. As part of the initiative, all Year 6 and P6 pupils will receive a special copy of Katherine Rundell's Impossible Creatures over the festive period. Camilla, who will provide a personal message for inclusion, called the book a 'brilliant fantasy that will introduce you to a host of mythical friends and terrifying enemies.'
Unexpected Celebrity Connections
In a lighter note, reports have emerged that singers Madonna and Celine Dion are genetically linked to Camilla. A Reddit user noted: 'Today I learned that Madonna and Celine Dion are distant cousins of Camilla Parker Bowles.' Woman & Home magazine explained the connection: 'Both Madonna and Celine Dion are descendants of the same French Canadian couple who lived in the 17th century. Camilla and the singers are also connected to actress Angelina Jolie.'
