King Charles Shines at Gladiator II Premiere in London Attending Royal Film Performance in Aid of Charity
King Charles made a dazzling appearance on the red carpet at the world premiere of Gladiator II in London on Wednesday, stepping out in high spirits for the 72nd Royal Film Performance. Held at the Odeon Luxe in Leicester Square, this annual charity event benefits The Film and TV Charity, an organization for which the King serves as patron.
Wearing a classic black suit, King Charles mingled with the film’s star-studded cast and crew, including Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, and Derek Jacobi, as well as Connie Nielsen and Denzel Washington. Also in attendance was the legendary director Sir Ridley Scott, who directed both the original Gladiator and its highly anticipated sequel.
Buckingham Palace shared a video of the King’s arrival, capturing the royal’s cheerful demeanor as he made his way down the red carpet. “What a night!” the Palace’s message accompanying the video read. “This evening, The King attended the 72nd Royal Film Performance screening of Gladiator II, in aid of The Film and TV Charity of which he is Patron.”
Notably absent from the event was Queen Camilla, who has been easing back into her royal duties after a recent illness. Palace officials had confirmed that Camilla is still recovering from a “seasonal chest infection,” and her schedule would be adjusted to ensure her health remains a priority. Although she attended the Booker Prize Awards at Clarence House earlier in the week, Palace sources emphasized that the Queen’s future engagements would be shortened to protect and prioritize her recovery. “There is no cause for concern around Camilla’s wider health,” officials assured.
The King’s attendance at the Gladiator II premiere marks his continued support for the film and television industry, further highlighted by his patronage of The Film and TV Charity. The annual Royal Film Performance, an event that dates back more than seven decades, has historically provided royal support to the British film industry and draws notable figures from both the UK and international entertainment scenes.
As King Charles celebrated the premiere alongside Hollywood’s biggest stars, his presence underscored the ongoing commitment of the monarchy to cultural and charitable endeavors in the UK, continuing a tradition that merges entertainment with philanthropy.