The recent Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla was marked by a reported moment of tension between Camilla and Princess Anne. According to designer David Emanuel, who famously created Princess Diana’s wedding dress, Princess Anne allegedly confronted Camilla over her title at a family dinner. The issue, as Emanuel explained, is that Camilla will be referred to as “Queen” instead of “Queen Consort,” a title some family members expected her to adopt. The distinction has stirred up strong opinions, with Emanuel noting that many people feel strongly that she should remain Queen Consort, as the late Queen Elizabeth II initially intended.

Emanuel shared these insights in an interview with Dan Wootton on GB News, adding that the shift to “Queen” is a sensitive subject. He reported that at the Coronation dinner, Princess Anne is said to have pointedly told Camilla, “You’re not Queen, you’re the Queen’s consort.” The alleged exchange underscores ongoing debates within the Royal Family over tradition, titles, and public perception, especially as the monarchy continues to adapt to a new era under King Charles III’s reign.

Camilla’s position has been a unique journey, evolving from a highly scrutinized relationship to a now-central role beside the King. For some in the Royal Family, such as Princess Anne, distinctions between “Queen” and “Queen Consort” may hold significant meaning, representing the promises made during the late Queen’s reign. The Princess Royal herself is taking a prominent role in her brother’s Coronation, holding the position of “Gold-Stick-in-Waiting,” a prestigious role dating back to Tudor times. This role places Anne directly behind King Charles and Queen Camilla in the Coronation procession, symbolizing her duty to protect the monarch.

Princess Anne’s status as Gold-Stick-in-Waiting involves leading a large procession of 6,000 armed service members as they escort the new King and Queen back to Buckingham Palace. This tradition emphasizes the longstanding responsibilities Anne upholds, adding further weight to any opinions she may express on royal titles and roles. Anne’s own popularity and dedication to duty often set her apart within the Royal Family, and she commands a unique respect among the public as a symbol of loyalty and service.

Another notable aspect of the Coronation was the attendance of Andrew Parker Bowles, Camilla’s former husband. Parker Bowles, who was married to Camilla for over two decades, has remained amicable with her, even attending family events over the years. At 83, he is described by friends as a “bit of a rogue” and “very naughty with women,” highlighting his unconventional but accepted presence at the Coronation. His attendance reflects the complex personal histories that accompany modern royal celebrations.

King Charles and Queen Camilla’s journey to this historic event has been one of evolution and adaptation, reshaping the traditional mold of the monarchy. Camilla’s ascension to “Queen” rather than “Queen Consort” may seem a minor change in title, but for a family steeped in tradition, it holds profound significance. David Emanuel’s comments reflect broader tensions about maintaining tradition while adapting to new expectations.

While the Coronation celebrated continuity and change, underlying family dynamics remind observers that the monarchy is, at its core, a family institution. The reported exchange between Anne and Camilla offers a rare glimpse into the nuances of royal relationships, particularly in moments of profound transition. For the public, the event encapsulated a symbolic start to King Charles III’s era while showcasing the royal family’s deeply rooted traditions and occasional disagreements over them.