Dame Penny Mordaunt has shared a delightful anecdote from the recent coronation of King Charles III, revealing how Prince Louis managed to enliven a moment that had turned rather tedious for the King. The little prince, just five years old at the time, made a remarkable impression during the lead-up to this historic occasion.
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Reflecting on the events leading up to the coronation on May 6, 2023, Mordaunt recounted that King Charles, now 77, had been rehearsing for the ceremony for two weeks and bore a weary expression during the dress rehearsals. According to Mordaunt, the King appeared “bored out of his mind” as he sat in the coronation chair, seemingly ready for the lengthy preparations to end.
It was during one of these dull rehearsals, she explained at the Cheltenham Literary Festival, that Prince Louis brought a spark of excitement into the room. Upon his arrival, the King’s mood transformed dramatically. Mordaunt described how the rehearsal was paused to allow King Charles to share a special moment with his youngest grandson, showcasing the Crown Jewels. This memory, she noted, was something she would cherish forever.
Mordaunt, who carried the ceremonial Sword of State during the coronation, had already caught the public’s eye with her striking gold-embroidered cape. As the first woman to take on this significant role, she became one of the standout figures of the day. After the coronation, the royal family took the time to express their gratitude, playfully teasing her about having “stolen the show.”
Prince Louis, known for his lively personality, did not disappoint during the coronation festivities. His cheeky antics, which have included making faces and amusing his family at previous royal events, have earned him a reputation as a scene-stealer. His father, Prince William, once remarked that while Louis enjoys “winding up” his siblings, he is fundamentally a “very good boy.”
As King Charles waved to the crowd from Buckingham Palace following the coronation, it was plain to see that the joyful spirit instilled by his grandson was a welcome addition to the day. This heartfelt interaction with Prince Louis served to remind everyone present of the warmth and familial bonds that underpin the splendour of royal ceremonies.
Dame Mordaunt has since reflected on her experiences surrounding the coronation, particularly the physical demands of holding the Sword of State. She humourously recalled responding to inquiries about her preparation for the task, clarifying that while people assumed she had been in rigorous training, she had merely prepared herself to ensure she was in good condition.
In her conversation with Political Thinking podcast host Nick Robinson, Mordaunt confirmed that she had not undergone any extensive fitness routine in the lead-up to the event. Instead, she mentioned taking a few painkillers to ensure she could manage the weight of the ceremonial sword, quipping that the Sword of State was particularly heavy.
Following her moment in the spotlight, Mordaunt’s role has resonated with many, prompting discussions about the importance of such traditions and ceremonies within the British monarchy. Her charming anecdotes, particularly those involving Prince Louis, highlight the personal side of royal events that often remain unnoticed amid the grandeur and ceremony.
As British society continues to engage with the monarchy’s evolving role, the heartwarming interactions between royal family members, such as that between King Charles and Prince Louis, serve to strengthen the emotional bonds that underpin the royal family.