King Charles, along with his sons Prince William and Prince Harry, was on a skiing trip in 2005 in Klosters, Switzerland when he made headlines for branding BBC royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell as “awful” during a photo shoot. Witchell, who had been covering royal matters since 1998, had asked Charles about his feelings regarding his upcoming wedding to Camilla. In response, Charles muttered to his sons, “Bloody people. I can’t bear that man. He’s so awful.” It was caught on microphone, and the incident became a news story.
Despite the comment, Witchell took the incident in stride, noting in 2014 that it was the best thing that happened to him. He expressed that journalists are there to report fair and accurate information, not to seek approval or be liked. Witchell did not receive an apology from Charles, and he didn’t see the need for one. However, he highlighted that it showed the importance of journalism’s principles. When news of Witchell’s retirement at age 70 surfaced, King Charles reportedly sent a warm-hearted message to Witchell during his leaving do, which came as a surprise to everyone present.
The incident with Witchell was a memorable and talked-about moment in the royal family’s history. Known for his candid remarks, King Charles did not shy away from expressing his displeasure with certain individuals, even in the presence of the media. While such comments may raise eyebrows, they also humanize the royal family members, showing that they too have opinions and reactions like anyone else. Witchell’s long-standing career as a BBC royal correspondent has been eventful and well-documented, with the incident involving Charles being a noteworthy highlight.
The relationship between the royal family and the media has always been a complex one, as the media constantly covers royal events and activities. Journalists like Witchell play a crucial role in providing information to the public about the royal family, but they also face scrutiny and criticism, as demonstrated by Charles’ comment. Despite such incidents, the royal family continues to interact with the media and participate in public engagements. With Witchell’s retirement, it marks the end of an era in royal reporting, and his career has left a lasting impact on royal journalism.
King Charles’ offhand remark about Witchell during the skiing trip in Switzerland remains a piece of royal family history. The incident, captured on microphone, showcased Charles’ candid nature and his genuine reactions in the midst of public engagements. Witchell, on the other hand, handled the situation with grace and professionalism, highlighting the importance of journalistic integrity and impartial reporting. As Witchell bids farewell to his role as a BBC royal correspondent, it marks the end of a chapter in royal reporting, with his interactions with the royal family, including King Charles, being memorable moments in media history.
