King Charles' mysterious bodyguard, who has gained a dedicated online following for his impressive beard and unwavering composure, is set to retire from accompanying the monarch on international visits. The unnamed security chief, who the Palace does not officially identify, played a vital role in ensuring the safety of King Charles and Queen Camilla during their recent state visit to the United States, where security was heightened following a shooting in Washington DC that targeted President Trump.
A Constant Presence at Royal Events
The bodyguard has frequently been seen close to the King at major engagements, including Royal Ascot and other high-profile royal occasions. His looming presence has become a familiar sight, but his trip to America with Charles and Camilla will mark his final overseas tour before retirement. During the US visit, the royal couple were enveloped in a 'ring of steel' as American agents deployed snipers and advanced drones, working alongside the King's personal security detail, with the bearded guard never far behind.
Continued Role in the Royal Household
Despite stepping back from international travel, it is understood that the King and Queen have requested the bodyguard to continue working within the royal household in a different capacity, according to reports from The Times. The guard first captured public attention around the time of the Queen's death in September 2022 and was a constant shadow during the King's Coronation in May 2023, vigilantly monitoring crowds as His Majesty greeted well-wishers along The Mall.
During the Coronation, the security guard was overheard politely instructing the public to lower their mobile phones as the new King conversed with fans outside Buckingham Palace. He was heard saying, “Phones down as we come past please,” urging the crowd to “enjoy the moment.”
Online Comparisons and Fan Following
Many online users have likened the guard to Colin Firth's character in the Kingsman film series, noting the umbrella he often carries, which some have dubbed a 'gunbrella'—a nod to the gadget-filled device Firth uses in the movies. “That thing he’s holding is a GUNbrella, not an umbrella,” one person commented on X, while another added, “I love him he needs to be the next James Bond… such an amazing guy.”
Other Viral Staff Members
The bodyguard is not the only member of King Charles' inner circle to go viral. Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Thompson, the King's equerry, has also captured public attention for his striking looks. Major Thompson has been by the King's side since the start of his reign and is a member of the 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland. He was spotted among the congregation at Westminster Abbey during Charles' Coronation in 2023, sparking a social media frenzy with many commenting on his “hunky” appearance.
One person wrote: “King Charles III's equerry is rather dashing,” while another added: “Oooh hot Equerry alert!” A third jokingly posted: “Charlie will you move over love, you're blocking my view of Jonathan Thompson,” accompanied by a gif of a woman fanning herself.
