King Charles’ past association with Jimmy Savile has reportedly returned to public attention as Buckingham Palace begins the search for a new Principal Private Secretary.
According to Radar Online, the issue has resurfaced as Sir Clive Alderton prepares to leave his role. The position is one of the most senior within the King’s household, and the appointment process is expected to be closely watched.
The renewed focus relates to reports from 1990 that Savile was asked for input before Christopher Airy was appointed as Charles’ Private Secretary. At the time, the future King faced media scrutiny over the claims. Buckingham Palace has since said that the current recruitment process will be “open and rigorous.”
Charles first met Savile in the late 1970s through their shared involvement with wheelchair sports charities. Their connection reportedly continued for several years, with Savile attending Charles’ 40th birthday celebrations in 1988.
A source claimed that Savile had unusually close access to royal circles during that period and was treated as more than a celebrity guest at official events.
“Savile had a remarkable level of access to the royal world during that period,” the insider said. “He wasn’t treated simply as another television personality who occasionally appeared at an official engagement.”
The source alleged that Charles found Savile’s unconventional style and direct manner entertaining, particularly in contrast to the formal atmosphere of palace life. They also claimed Savile was able to speak more openly to Charles than many courtiers would have felt comfortable doing.
Savile died in 2011 at the age of 84. In October 2012, a year after his death, allegations of widespread sexual abuse against him became public, involving a large number of victims.
