King Charles's bearded bodyguard has retired from official duty following the monarch's state visit to the United States. The unnamed security chief completed his final assignment during Charles and Camilla's high-stakes tour this week.
Security During the Visit
He was a key member of a massive 'ring of steel' that provided protection during the visit, as US agents deployed snipers and high-tech drones to shield the royal couple. Heightened security followed a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner last Saturday, where Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance had to be hurried from their seats.
The Bodyguard's Role
Leading Charles's security charge was his mysterious bearded bodyguard, a long-serving figure who unexpectedly went viral on social media due to his distinct facial hair and dedication to the job. The guard remained glued to the monarch's side throughout the tour, intended to be his final duty before retiring.
However, Charles and Camilla are understood to be so fond of the security chief that they asked him to abandon his retirement plans and continue with the royal household in a new role, according to The Times.
Public Attention
He first garnered intense public attention following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and has since appeared at major royal events such as Royal Ascot. He was also a loyal protector ahead of Charles's Coronation in May 2023, keeping a close eye on the monarch as he greeted fans along The Mall in London.
The guard was heard respectfully ordering the crowds to put their phones away as Charles chatted with well-wishers outside Buckingham Palace. 'Phones down as we come past please,' he said, before urging the public to 'enjoy the moment'.
The guard also went viral on TikTok three years ago as fans became convinced his trusty umbrella is actually a 'gunbrella', just like the one in the film Kingsman starring Colin Firth. He was even seen keeping a close eye on Charles during a boat ride during a visit to the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coast Guard on Friday, standing closely behind the King.
Heightened Security
Heightened security at Charles and Camilla's US tour came after an alleged attempted assassination of Trump at a press gala held at the Washington Hilton last month. A suspected gunman entered the foyer at the hotel, before shots were heard, prompting Secret Service agents to rush the President and members of his cabinet out of the room to a safe place. One Secret Service officer was hit but is anticipated to make a full recovery. Cole Thomas Allen, 31, from California, has been charged with attempting to assassinate the President.
