King Charles gets visibly emotional at Festival of Remembrance as George attends for first time

Dorothy Reddin

By Dorothy Reddin


Published: 09/11/2025

- 09:43

The young prince made his first appearance at the commemorative event

King Charles showed clear emotion during Saturday evening's Festival of Remembrance when thousands of voices united in singing the national anthem at the Royal Albert Hall.

The powerful moment occurred as part of commemorations honouring eight decades since the Second World War's conclusion.


Following the rendition, military personnel offered three rousing cheers for the King.

Charles acknowledged the gesture with a wave to the assembled crowd, which included war veterans who had participated in D-Day planning, endured captivity as prisoners of war, and survived naval attacks.

King Charles

King Charles gets visibly emotional at Festival of Remembrance as George attends for first time

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GETTY

The anthem concluded with a two-minute silence during which poppy petals descended from above.

The young prince made his first appearance at the commemorative event, joining his mother for the significant occasion. The 12-year-old wore formal attire, including a dark suit with a poppy pin and striped necktie.

Princess Kate chose an Alessandra Rich creation featuring a black design with distinctive white collar detail.

She accessorised with jewellery that had belonged to Queen Elizabeth II and wore an HMS Glasgow brooch.

King Charles and Queen Camilla

King Charles and Queen Camilla watching the Festival of Remembrance

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REUTERS

Her poppy was specially crafted from silk, glass and natural materials by recent Royal School of Needlework graduate Izzy Ager from Lock and Co. The Princess's husband was absent, having travelled to Brazil for environmental commitments.

The Queen Consort accompanied her husband, wearing a sparkly gown complemented by Van Cleef diamond jewellery.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were present, with Sophie carrying a Lulu Guinness 'Sophie' fan clutch alongside her poppy badge.

Prince Richard and Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester, joined the gathering with poppies affixed to their attire. Trumpeters announced the royals' arrival as spectators rose to their feet.

Prince GeorgePrince George joining his mother, Princess Kate, on the eve of Remembrance Sunday | REUTERS

The family later reciprocated by standing to applaud the Chelsea Pensioners in their distinctive scarlet uniforms as they processed through the venue.

An orchestral performance of Boys Of The Old Brigade accompanied their march across the stage.

The evening's entertainment featured Sir Rod Stewart performing Sentimental Journey as the opening act. The monarch was observed enjoying the performance, alongside his equerry, Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson.

Prince George and Princess KatePrince George makes Royal Family debut alongside Princess Kate to honour British Armed Forces | REUTERS

Sam Ryder contributed to the musical programme, whilst Keala Settle also performed for the assembled guests. The Central Band of the RAF and RAF Squadronaires provided additional musical accompaniment.

The Wellermen folk group collaborated with the Band of HM Royal Marines for an energetic performance of Avicii's The Nights.

The Royal British Legion organised the event, with Charles having become the organisation's patron the previous year.