King Charles and Queen Camilla have weathered many storms together. Their love story began amidst controversy, with their famous affair while both were still married—Charles to Princess Diana and Camilla to Andrew Parker Bowles. Initially, the public and parts of the Royal Family were not warm to Camilla, but over time, she has endeared herself as a cherished member of the royal circle.

Camilla didn’t start life as a royal. She grew up in Sussex, hand in hand with her sister Annabel. The two attended the same school and shared many experiences. Nowadays, Annabel accompanies her sister at various royal events, such as King Charles’s coronation.

Living a life away from the limelight, Annabel has seldom spoken publicly. However, she recently opened up about King Charles and Queen Camilla’s marriage, adding new dimensions to their story.

When news of King Charles and Camilla’s affair became public, few believed it would end well. Princess Diana was a beloved figure, and many were disheartened by Charles’s actions—though it later emerged Diana had her own affairs. This public disapproval landed heavily on Camilla.

The early connection between Charles and Camilla dates back to 1972 when they first met at a polo match. Their mutual friend, Lucia Santa Cruz, played matchmaker, introducing them to one another, as detailed in Gyles Brandreth’s book Charles and Camilla, Portrait of a Love Affair.

Their romance was short-lived when Charles departed for the Royal Navy. Upon his return, Camilla was engaged to Andrew Parker Bowles, whom she married in 1973. Yet, she maintained a warm friendship with Charles, who later began a relationship with a young Lady Diana Spencer in 1980.

Pivotal Moments

At first, Diana found camaraderie with Camilla, describing her in her book Diana: In Her Own Words as “sweet and cute.” However, this friendship grew tense as events unfolded.

From the outside, Charles and Diana appeared to function as a typical royal couple. However, by 1992, they announced their separation and continued their royal duties independently, finalizing their divorce in 1996.

The “Tampongate” Revelation

By then, the public was already aware of Charles and Camilla’s relationship. The infamous “Tampongate” incident in December 1989 exposed their private affair through a leaked phone call full of intimate exchanges, confirming their longstanding relationship.

This scandal, known as “Tampongate,” was a shocking revelation about the future king’s conduct. The call’s content led to significant public backlash against Charles.

Polls taken after the leak showed a decline in Charles’s reputation, with some even suggesting Prince William should bypass his father in succession. Camilla also received criticism from both the public and the Royal Family.

Facing Public Criticism

Unsurprisingly, Camilla wasn’t well-liked among the British public nor was she a favorite of Queen Elizabeth initially. Author Tom Bower, in his writings, describes Queen Elizabeth’s initial reluctance towards Camilla, which required Charles to intervene.

Royal expert Angela Levin recounts in her book Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall: A Royal Survivor that Camilla stayed mostly out of the public eye to avoid backlash and negativity. She was cautious, sending friends for errands to avoid unwanted attention.

“She faced a tough time, unjustly labeled ‘the most wicked woman,’ and endured derogatory nicknames like ‘rottweiler,’” Levin shared.

Charles ensured Camilla had security, personally hiring bodyguards for her protection until their marriage in 2005, when official royal protection began.

Overcoming Hostility

Levin also noted that Charles, at first, underestimated Camilla’s struggles, but upon realization, he took actions to protect her. Fortunately, public opinion about Camilla has improved significantly since her marriage to Charles, although Levin believes she still carries emotional scars.

“Camilla remains somewhat cautious, uncertain of public reactions,” Levin stated.

Today, Camilla is a respected figure, but it’s considered a public relations triumph rather than complete acceptance by all. Public relations expert Luana Ribeira described it as a “miracle” given Camilla’s unpopularity in the past.

Changing Public Perception

Ribeira described Camilla as straightforward and earnest, earning a place of respect but not adoration. Her advice for Camilla to continue being authentic helped shape her improved standing.

“Her perseverance during challenging times showcased her resilience and loyalty,” Ribeira commented.

Camilla’s journey to becoming queen has been difficult, but she has constantly found support in her husband Charles and her family. Above all, her sister Annabel has been steadfastly beside her.

Growing up in Sussex, Camilla and Annabel were close, attending the same schools and sharing life’s highs and lows.

Annabel Shares Their Story

Annabel has largely remained in the background despite her family’s prominence. Yet, with the release of the BBC1 documentary, Charles III: The Coronation Year, she stepped forward to discuss her sister’s relationship with Charles more openly.

In the documentary, Annabel called Camilla Charles’s “rock,” commending her steadfast loyalty and consistency, which she believes has been pivotal in their married life.

Describing the couple as polar opposites, yet perfectly balanced, Annabel shared her admiration for their relationship dynamics.

Richard Jackson, Bishop of Hereford, echoed this sentiment, noting the couple’s genuine warmth and affection observed during family gatherings.

Continued Support from Annabel

Annabel operates her business, Annabel Elliot Interior Design and Antiques in Dorset, earning esteem as a top UK interior designer. Her bond with Charles extends beyond familial ties as she has supported his projects, including work on his Welsh home, Llwywormwood.

Their collaboration and mutual respect is evident, with Annabel frequently advising Camilla on various matters, ensuring she stays grounded amidst her royal duties.

As Camilla ascended to queen alongside Charles, Annabel stood by her, an emotional anchor during the monumental occasion.

The documentary captures Annabel’s emotions during Camilla’s coronation journey, highlighting her formal role and heartfelt support.

Family Ties and Significant Roles

Reflecting on childhood memories of a distant coronation she watched on a small television, Annabel described the surreal experience of seeing her sister as queen.

Despite the grandeur of the coronation, Annabel’s protective instincts kicked in, ensuring Camilla felt supported and grounded during the historic event.