King Charles III is deploying a lifetime of royal training and a formidable secret weapon to steer the monarchy through one of its most turbulent periods in recent memory, according to a leading expert. With public approval ratings under pressure, the monarch's strategy focuses on tireless duty to protect the institution's future.
The 'Andrew Problem' and a Monarchy Under Strain
The weight of the crown has been felt acutely by King Charles as he navigates persistent family crises. The ongoing fallout from his brother Prince Andrew's association with the late Jeffrey Epstein, and the subsequent decision to strip him of his royal title and remove him from Royal Lodge, has been a significant source of public controversy. This, combined with the rift with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan, has contributed to a slide in the Royal Family's approval ratings.
Following the towering example of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who maintained immense public support through decades of change, Charles faces a uniquely challenging landscape. Royal commentator Jennie Bond suggests the King is responding not with grand statements, but with a quiet, determined focus on service.
The Relentless Work Ethic: Charles's Strategic Shield
Bond identifies the King's "relentless" work ethic as his primary defence against scandal. "The King is upping his workload to compensate," she explains. His mission is clear: to honour his mother's legacy, establish his own mark, and ultimately hand over the monarchy in 'fine fettle' to his son, Prince William.
This approach is rooted in the late Queen's belief that the Sovereign must be "seen to be believed." Charles is creating a "steady hum of public service" to anchor the institution. Bond notes this dedication is deeply ingrained, recalling anecdotes from his sons about finding him working at his desk late into the night.
He is not alone in this endeavour. Bond highlights Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, as his most steadfast ally, performing more working days than any other royal last year. Together, they represent a traditionalist front of duty that contrasts sharply with the controversies engulfing other family members.
Preparing for the Future: William's Different Path
While the King maintains a punishing schedule, the future of the monarchy, Prince William, has faced scrutiny for his lower ranking in the annual tally of royal engagements, placing seventh out of ten. Bond urges understanding, citing his young family and his wife Catherine's recent cancer treatment.
She also points to a fundamental difference in their working styles. Where Charles crams multiple meetings into a day, William focuses on depth and "impact," preferring single, lengthy engagements where he can drive concrete results. This suggests a monarchy evolving its methods while maintaining its core purpose.
For King Charles, however, the role remains a life sentence of service. Having undertaken his first engagement over 60 years ago, he shows no sign of slowing down, even while undergoing cancer treatment. Like his mother, he is expected to work until the end, using his visible resilience and unwavering commitment as the ultimate tools to secure the monarchy's legacy for generations to come.
