Monarch Attends Church Alone as Reports of Son’s Spencer Move Rock Royals
King Charles made a subdued public appearance at Sandringham just hours after news broke that Prince Harry is considering dropping the royal family name — a move many view as a deep personal insult to his father.
The monarch was seen arriving at St Mary Magdalene Church without Queen Camilla, smiling and waving at onlookers, though his expression appeared tinged with sadness. Observers noted the unusual absence of Camilla, who typically accompanies him during Sandringham visits.
The outing followed revelations that Harry allegedly consulted Earl Charles Spencer about replacing the ‘Mountbatten-Windsor’ surname with his mother’s maiden name, Spencer — a decision his uncle reportedly advised against.
According to Daily Mail journalist Richard Eden, the move has left royal insiders stunned. Commentator Anne Diamond called it “the most hurtful insult” Harry could direct at his cancer-stricken father.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams echoed the concern, saying the move reflects the ongoing “toxicity” in the royal rift and questioned whether the Sussexes are receiving sound advice.
For King Charles, who is said to still harbour affection for his younger son, the reported rejection of the family name — a legacy he holds dear just as his late father Prince Philip did — may be one of the most personal blows yet.
