Renowned singer and American Idol judge Lionel Richie recently opened up exclusively to PEOPLE about his close friendship with King Charles, praising the monarch’s sense of humour. Richie, who has been involved with The King’s Trust (originally known as The Prince’s Trust) since around 1985, shared insights into King Charles’ personality during an interview at The King’s Trust 4th Annual Global Gala in New York City. The gala aims to support youth by providing them with the necessary tools for success, including jobs, education and training programmes in over 20 countries worldwide.
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Despite King Charles’ regal status, Richie highlighted his friend’s down-to-earth nature and caring attitude towards people. He described the King as a wonderful person with a lot of ideas about bringing positive change to the world. Richie emphasised the King’s sense of humour, stating that it is something the public may not always see but is a significant aspect of his personality that he cherishes. The singer commended King Charles for his dedication to making a difference and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the King’s lighter side.
Richie’s involvement with The King’s Trust dates back over 15 years, with the singer deeply committed to supporting the organisation’s mission. The charity, established by King Charles in 1976 as The Prince’s Trust, has impacted the lives of over one million young individuals, providing them with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Richie’s role as the First Global Ambassador and First Chairman of the Global Ambassador Group underscores his dedication to empowering the next generation.
Following King Charles’ ascension to the throne in September 2022, the charity was officially rebranded as The King’s Trust in October 2024 to align with his new royal title. Richie was a guest at the King’s coronation ceremony in 2023, where he performed at the Coronation Concert alongside other renowned artists. Describing it as an honour, Richie reflected on the importance of supporting and inspiring young individuals to fulfil their dreams, emphasising the need for mentoring and encouragement in today’s world.
The King’s Trust Global Gala in New York City served as a platform for Richie and Edward Enninful to co-host the event, continuing their collaborative efforts in advancing the charity’s cause. Enninful, former editor of British Vogue, also serves as a Global Ambassador for the charity and supports its initiatives aimed at youth empowerment. The presence of influential figures like Richie and Enninful underscores the collective commitment to nurturing and uplifting the next generation.
The event also featured collaborative partnerships with individuals like Charlotte Tilbury, whose cosmetics brand is a charitable partner of The King’s Trust. The collective efforts of dedicated individuals and organisations reflect a shared commitment to creating a positive impact and fostering a supportive environment for young people worldwide. Richie’s words at the gala echoed a sentiment of gratitude for the opportunity to be part of a global movement dedicated to shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
As efforts to support youth empowerment and education continue to evolve, collaborations between artists, influencers and organisations play a pivotal role in driving positive change. Through events like The King’s Trust Global Gala, individuals like Lionel Richie and Edward Enninful are able to leverage their platforms to raise awareness and support initiatives that uplift and empower the next generation. Their shared commitment to making a difference highlights the importance of collective action in creating a better future for all.