Dame Elaine Paige has revealed that King Charles III 'broke character' during a light-hearted exchange at her investiture ceremony, leaving the monarch in fits of laughter. The 78-year-old West End legend and radio presenter met the King at Windsor Castle last year when he presented her with a damehood for her contributions to music and charity.
King Charles's Saucy Remark
Speaking to The Metro, Paige described the encounter: 'He was up on a dais and I'm particularly short. He leant down beside my left ear and said, "Keeping your hand in, are you?"' When it was suggested the remark was 'saucy', she added: 'I said, "I'm working on a new album - I'll send you a signed copy, Your Majesty, when it's finished."' She recalled that the King 'roared with laughter' and cheekily noted: 'I might actually send him a signed copy.'
A Magical Day with David Beckham
Paige described the occasion as 'magical', revealing she shared the room with David Beckham, who received a knighthood on the same day. Upon learning she was included in the King's Birthday Honours list, the BBC Radio 2 star called the recognition the 'ultimate privilege'. 'Music and the charities I support are the mainstays of my life,' she said in a statement. 'To receive this acknowledgment for doing what I love is the ultimate privilege. In the words of Rodgers and Hammerstein "There is Nothin' Like a Dame" and this newly-minted one is absolutely over the moon and truly grateful.'
Further Honours and Queen Camilla's Tribute
Elaine, who received an OBE in 1995, was also honoured with the 2026 Special Award by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber at this year's Olivier Awards. In a message from Queen Camilla delivered by the composer, she stated: 'I was delighted to learn you were to receive this year's special award of the Oliviers 2026. I can think of no more fitting recipient. Over the decades of your career, your talent, commitment and generosity of spirit have made you a truly defining figure in musical theatre. You have quite simply brought huge joy to untold numbers of people across the globe, and we are all in your debt. I do hope that you have a wonderful evening.'
King Charles's Father's Day Tribute
Paige's revelation came after King Charles paid a heartfelt tribute to his late father, the Duke of Edinburgh, to commemorate Father's Day. A caption accompanying a photograph read: 'Celebrating all Fathers, and thinking of those who wish they could be with their Dads, today.' Prince Philip passed away in 2021 at Windsor Castle at the age of 99.
