King Charles and Queen Camilla have weathered many storms together. Their relationship began under a cloud of controversy, with both being married to others—Charles to Princess Diana and Camilla to Andrew Parker Bowles. Despite initial resistance from the public and the Royal Family, Camilla eventually became a cherished member of the royal circle.

Camilla did not grow up royal. She hailed from Sussex, where she enjoyed a close relationship with her sister, Annabel. They shared many experiences, from schooling to attending royal events together, including King Charles’ coronation.

Annabel, who preferred to keep a low profile, recently shared insights into the reality of Charles and Camilla’s marriage.

Their affair, which came to light amid much public scrutiny, was initially met with skepticism regarding a happy ending. At the time, the public adored Princess Diana; thus, after learning of her husband’s betrayal—although Diana herself went on to have an affair—the public turned against Camilla.

Charles and Camilla’s relationship began long before Charles met Diana. Their first meeting was a chance encounter at a polo match in 1972.

Gyles Brandreth’s book, Charles and Camilla, Portrait of a Love Affair, claims they met through mutual friend Lucia Santa Cruz, daughter of the Chilean ambassador.

Though Charles and Camilla dated for a time, their relationship paused when Charles joined the Royal Navy. Upon his return, Camilla was engaged to Andrew Parker Bowles.

Bowles and Camilla wed in 1973, yet Camilla maintained contact with Charles. Charles, meanwhile, started dating Diana Spencer in 1980.

Initially, Camilla approved of Diana, describing her as “sweet and cute.” However, things soon became uncomfortable.

In Diana’s words, “I met [Camilla] very early on. I was introduced to the circle, but I was a threat, I was a very young girl, but I was a threat.”

The public saw Charles and Diana as a fairytale couple, but their marriage dissolved publicly and officially by 1996, a year after their initial separation.

Infamous Tampongate Scandal

Charles and Camilla’s relationship became undeniably known to the public in 1989, with the release of a controversial phone call.

Just months after Charles and Diana’s separation, a newspaper published a transcript of a private conversation between Charles and Camilla, filled with intimate language. The recording had been kept confidential for years.

This scandal damaged Charles’s reputation significantly. A poll post-transcript publication revealed 68% believed Charles harmed his image, while 42% felt Prince William should succeed Queen Elizabeth instead. Camilla faced criticism from both the public and the Royal Family.

Queen Camilla Faced Public Backlash

Camilla experienced significant unpopularity, with Queen Elizabeth initially avoiding interaction with her. Royal author Tom Bower said Charles even confronted the Queen about this.

Angela Levin, author of Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall: A Royal Survivor, claimed in her book that Camilla endured harsh mistreatment, secluded in her home to avoid public ire, relying on friends for errands.

Levin narrated, “It was very difficult for her, being painted as the wicked woman. She was frequently insulted, receiving derogatory nicknames.”

Charles himself ensured Camilla’s security and paid for protection until their marriage in 2005, after which her security became state-funded.

Ongoing Public Perception Challenges

Though Camilla eventually became more accepted, she remained cautious about public reaction. Angela Levin surmised that Camilla “still bears scars” from past criticisms.

Despite a growing favorability, public relations expert Luana Ribeira believes Camilla may never fully win the public’s affection but has earned their respect over the years.

The public perception turned more respectful, but Ribeira acknowledged: “Queen Camilla’s unwavering support for Charles demonstrated her loyalty, despite being Britain’s most disliked woman at one point.”

Strong Support System

Throughout her trials, Camilla benefited from a support system within the Royal Family, most notably from her sister Annabel Elliot.

Camilla and Annabel shared a close bond, growing up and experiencing life together, leading parallel lives, even marrying and having children in the same periods.

Annabel Shares Details of the Royal Marriage

Annabel, who rarely appeared in public, spoke in the documentary Charles III: The Coronation Year, shedding light on Camilla’s steadfast loyalty, describing her as Charles’s “rock” during trying times.

Annabel highlighted Camilla’s unwavering loyalty and adaptability, contrasting yet complementing Charles’s expansive knowledge and interests. She added that they balance each other.

Richard Jackson, Bishop of Hereford, noted in the documentary how affectionate Charles and Camilla are with each other, describing their family warmth.

A Sister’s Role and Influence

Annabel expressed emotion during the coronation, reflecting on witnessing her sister ascend to queenship, marking a surreal yet emotional moment.

Annabel’s connection with the royal couple included a professional relationship, as she worked on Charles’s Welsh home Llwywormwood, stemming from appreciation for her interior design skills.

Despite her low public profile, Annabel’s influence in Camilla’s life has been significant, standing by her side during many key royal events.

Annabel’s Coronation Role

In the documentary, Annabel discussed her feelings during the coronation, highlighting her supportive role and the surreal experience of watching her sister ride to Westminster Abbey in a regal golden coach.

Annabel acted as Lady in Attendance during the coronation, ensuring her sister’s well-being and recounting the overwhelming but proud experience.

Annabel’s emotional reflections on her sister’s rise remind us of the strong family ties that bind the sisters, revealing the relatable human elements amidst the grandeur of royal life.