King Charles III made history in 2022 when he ascended the British throne at the age of 73, becoming the oldest monarch ever to do so. While he vowed at the time to serve for the rest of his life, recent public discussions — and the King’s health concerns — have sparked questions about what might happen if he were to step down.
So, is abdication even a real possibility for the current monarch? And if so, how would the royal succession unfold?
What Happens If a Monarch Becomes Unwell?
In the event a sovereign is unable to perform their duties — whether temporarily or permanently — the UK’s constitutional framework has mechanisms in place. One such law is the Regency Act, which allows senior royals to carry out the monarch’s duties if they are incapacitated.
In such cases, Prince William could be appointed as regent and take over many of the King’s responsibilities. However, he would not be monarch unless King Charles formally abdicated or passed away.
Can the King Abdicate? What Would Happen If He Did?
Although abdication is rare in British history, it is legally permitted. If King Charles were to voluntarily step down, the throne would pass directly to his eldest son, Prince William, who is first in the line of succession.
In that case:
- William would become King William V (if he chose that regnal name).
- Kate Middleton would become Queen Consort, likely styled as Queen Catherine.
- Prince George would take William’s place as heir apparent and would likely be named Prince of Wales.
Such a transition would be highly ceremonial and constitutionally significant, requiring coordination across Parliament and the Crown.
Could Religious Reasons Ever Force an Abdication?
Historically, monarchs have been required by law to be Protestant and members of the Church of England — a rule rooted in the Act of Settlement (1701) and reinforced by the Bill of Rights (1689). If a reigning monarch were to convert to another religion, they would legally be required to abdicate.
However, this is not relevant to King Charles at present, who continues to serve as Supreme Governor of the Church of England.
What Would Happen to Queen Camilla?
If King Charles were to step down or pass away, Queen Camilla would retain the title of Queen Consort, but her role would naturally diminish. Since her title is tied to her marriage to the monarch, it does not grant sovereign authority.
When Prince William becomes king, Kate would take over as Queen Consort. Camilla might continue to appear at some official events but would likely withdraw from frontline royal duties over time.
Are There Real Reports That Charles Is Considering It?
Royal commentator Clive Irving, author of The Last Queen, recently claimed that King Charles may have discussed plans to abdicate around the age of 80. According to Irving, the King might wish to oversee a few key years of transition — smoothing over relations within the monarchy, particularly concerning Prince Harry — before handing the crown to Prince William.
No formal timeline has been shared, and these reports remain speculative. The palace has not confirmed or denied any plans for early retirement.
Final Thoughts
While King Charles has shown commitment to serving “for the remainder of the time God grants” him — echoing his mother’s lifelong dedication — the idea of abdication is not entirely off the table in modern monarchies.
For now, though, Britain’s king remains on the throne, with Prince William continuing to support his father as heir apparent. The monarchy may evolve in the years ahead, but any transition will likely be measured, constitutional, and carefully choreographed.