Charles R: The Making of a Monarch

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2023

Documentary

Summary

The story of Charles III's more than seven decades as heir to the throne, using archive material drawn from newsreels, home movies, interviews and documentaries. He reflects on his formative years from life at home with his family, his singular education, early experiences as a fledgling working royal, his time in the military and the roots of the many passions and causes that have been a feature of his time as Prince of Wales

Review

Caroline Frost

When Charles takes his throne on 6 May and is pronounced King, it will be after more than seven decades in waiting. Has there ever been someone more prepared for a role?

As the nation gears up for the first coronation of most British people’s lifetime, this definitive documentary looks back at the people, places and events that have shaped our new monarch over those many years, including footage from newsreels, home movies, documentaries, and interviews with those who know him best — a wealth of material, much of it previously unseen.

At the programme’s heart, we hear from Charles himself, discussing his formative years with his family and away from home, his time in the military, and his evolving sense of public service. He remembers those who influenced his outlook and opinions, and sowed the seeds of the many passions and causes that defined his time as Prince of Wales. And it explores how well he is placed to balance the demands of a 1,000-year royal legacy with those of a modern, media-friendly monarchy.