King Charles III was visibly displeased when he and Queen Camilla were caught in a torrential rainstorm during their royal tour of the Caribbean on Sunday. The unexpected downpour occurred as the couple attended Antigua and Barbuda’s 45th independence anniversary parade at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
While Queen Camilla, 79, was quickly provided with an umbrella, the 77-year-old King appeared to look around for assistance, seeking an umbrella of his own. He was eventually given one, and the ceremony continued.
During the event, King Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment, made a lighthearted comment to Prime Minister Gaston Browne, remarking, “I think I’m about to grow watercress on my suit.” He was wearing a beige suit and a colorful tie, while Camilla sported a white Anna Valentine chiffon dress.
The nine-day royal tour began on October 27th, with the couple visiting the Bahamas and Guyana before arriving in Antigua. Camilla joined her husband on the fifth day of the tour.
The tour has taken place amidst ongoing discussions regarding slavery reparations from the UK. Earlier in the week, upon arriving in the Bahamas, Charles acknowledged the past suffering in the islands, stating that it was “only right that we should acknowledge the great suffering and injustices of the past.” Protesters had also gathered in Nassau, calling for reparations and the return of stolen artifacts.
Buckingham Palace previously confirmed in January 2024 that Charles was being treated for a benign enlarged prostate. It was during this treatment that his cancer was detected. He has continued to fulfill his royal duties throughout his cancer battle, with occasional support from his son, Prince William.