London, UK – King Charles III was seen in fits of laughter during this year’s Royal Variety Show, held at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. The annual charity event, broadcast on ITV, featured a star-studded lineup, including Sir Elton John, Amanda Holden, and Alan Carr, but it was comedian Scott Bennett who stole the show with his hilarious camping anecdote.
Bennett, a Yorkshire-based stand-up comedian, delivered a routine about the frustrations of camping, focusing on the loud and comical sounds of tent zips. Reenacting the struggle of unzipping a tent in the middle of the night, he joked about both the speed and persistence of fellow campers.
The highlight came when Bennett mimicked a painfully slow zipper noise, prompting the King, seated in the royal box, to double over in laughter. The scene, captured on camera, showcased Charles’ hearty enjoyment of the moment.
The evening also featured a politically charged sketch by Matt Forde, who impersonated Donald Trump, referencing unfounded claims about immigrants during the U.S. presidential campaign. Addressing King Charles directly, Forde joked about the monarch’s name being shared with a spaniel, eliciting another round of laughter from the King.
While King Charles attended the event solo, Queen Camilla was notably absent due to ongoing recovery from a chest infection. Buckingham Palace confirmed that Camilla was advised to rest after experiencing post-viral symptoms following a demanding schedule.
A spokesperson reassured the public, stating: “Her Majesty continues to recover and will resume engagements as her energy improves.”
The Royal Variety Show, a tradition since 1912, serves as a fundraiser for the Royal Variety Charity, supporting entertainment industry professionals in need of assistance, including mental health support.
This year marked the King’s first attendance as the charity’s patron. Beyond enjoying the performances, Charles greeted attendees, including Penn and Teller, Lorraine Kelly, and Ellie Taylor, whose amazement at meeting the monarch was captured in a memorable moment.
King Charles’ cheerful participation underscores the event’s enduring appeal and its significance in the royal calendar. His visible delight in the performances reflects his commitment to celebrating British talent while supporting those in the entertainment industry who face challenges.
As the evening concluded, it was clear that the Royal Variety Show continues to bring joy and laughter while championing a meaningful cause.
