Sir Rod Stewart appeared to congratulate King Charles for putting 'that little ratbag in his place,' in a clear reference to the US President Donald Trump during a recent state visit. The comment was made at a gala celebrating the 50th anniversary of the King's Trust at the Royal Albert Hall.
Royal Exchange at Anniversary Gala
During the interval of the event, Sir Rod approached the King and said: 'May I say, well done in the Americas. You were superb, absolutely superb, put that little ratbag in his place.' The King appeared to laugh off the remark, with Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood grinning beside them.
Sir Rod continued: 'Exactly, that's it – it went right over his head, right over his head.' The King briefly responded, though the exact reply was unclear. Sir Rod then turned to Queen Camilla, saying: 'I was just congratulating your husband on his wonderful performance in the Americas, so great, so brave, so proud.'
State Visit Context
The King and Queen Camilla had recently completed a four-day state visit to the US, hosted by President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. During the trip, Charles addressed Congress on topics including Nato, support for Ukraine, and the 'collapse of critical natural systems' – issues that appear to be out of favour with the White House. At a state dinner, the King joked that 'if it wasn't for us, you'd be speaking French!'
Celebrating 50 Years of the King's Trust
The Monday evening event celebrated young people helped by the King's Trust, founded by Charles in 1976. The charity has supported over 1.3 million young people across the UK, aiming to end youth unemployment and create better futures.
Charles and Camilla arrived on the red carpet, greeted by TV presenters Ant and Dec, who hosted the evening. The King remarked it had been 'a long time' since he last saw them, noting they looked unchanged. Ant (Anthony McPartlin), 50, replied he had 'a lot of makeup on.'
Camilla wore a purple lace cocktail dress by Fiona Clare, a crepe magenta cape by Dior, and amethyst and diamond earrings once belonging to the Duchess of Kent, Queen Victoria's mother.
Awards and Performances
Young beneficiaries received awards from celebrities including singer Alesha Dixon and Emily in Paris actress Lily Collins. In an emotional speech, award winner Sahara thanked the trust for helping her after a suicide attempt.
The King and Queen spoke with performers Rita Ora, Sir Rod Stewart, Anne-Marie, Craig David, Skye Newman, and Jools Holland. They were joined by British actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Sir Idris Elba, and Hollywood star George Clooney with his lawyer wife Amal.
