What you need to know
Duchess Kate and Prince William send birthday wishes to King Charles.
The King celebrated his 77th birthday on Thursday, November 14, and the Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, were among the many who sent him well wishes on social media.
“Happy Birthday, His Majesty the King!” the couple wrote on Instagram, posting a new image of Charles strolling in the gardens of their home in Highgrove House, Gloucestershire.
The royal family posted on their official Instagram account, “Today is my 77th birthday! 🎈Thank you for your kind words and blessings on His Majesty’s birthday.”
Camilla and Duchess are visiting South Wales to celebrate her birthday. They will meet locals at Syfarsfa Castle in Merthyr Tydfil and learn about the region’s art and culture.
King Charles’ recent birthday marks the end of a turbulent few years, from the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, to his own health problems. This year was no exception, with the celebrations taking place just weeks after the King made the difficult decision to strip his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor of all royal titles, including Prince.
The announcement was made on October 30th, and became official on November 3rd when details of the Letter of Patent, a legal document expressing the will of the monarch, were published by the Royal Family in the Gazette, Britain’s official public record.
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“The King is pleased to declare that by Letters Patent under the Great Seal dated 3 November 2025, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is no longer entitled to retain and enjoy the style, title and attributes of ‘His Royal Highness’ and the nominal dignity of ‘Prince’,” the Gazette statement said. ”
People understand that it was King Charles’ decision to strip Andrew of his title and honor. He did this by using royal prerogatives, which allow him to control certain royal titles and honors without involving Parliament, and with the support of members of the royal family, including Prince William.
Prince Andrew had previously volunteered to stop using his royal title, but Ailsa Anderson, the late Queen’s former press secretary, told PEOPLE that the former Duke was “dragging his feet” and forcing King Charles to decide “enough is enough.”
At the same time, Anderson said, “I think it’s a mixed feeling for him.”
“That’s why it took so long,” she added. “This is a family and a monarchy, and when those lines get blurred it’s very difficult for them. I’m glad the late Queen never had to face this.”
