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Privacy Notice Queen Camilla’s journey is certainly one for the history books – but, if there is one thing that the past seven months have definitely proven, it is that she has grown into her role better than anyone could have ever hoped for. As she celebrates her 77th birthday, a royal expert points out why Her Majesty should feel rightly justified as her value continues to grow after many years of being one of the least popular members of the Royal Family. “I remember so well the years when Camilla was kept in the shadows – what she went through would have broken any weaker woman,” former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond exclusively tells OK!
Queen Camilla is celebrating her 77th birthday
(Image: 2024 Getty Images)
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“But she always had two factors in her favour: an unshakeable love for Charles and an ability to rise above the criticism and get on with life. And now she has won the respect and affection of many people in this country, and is thriving as a result.” Even though the Queen is now at an age where most people have already put their feet up for a well-deserved rest, she is busier than ever as a modern and forward-thinking consort who is readily tackling some of the most challenging causes – from domestic abuse and gender equality to female genital mutilation.
Queen Camilla has expertly stepped into her role
(Image: Getty Images)
“I think she might have surprised herself by enjoying hard work as much as she seems to be doing!” Jennie laughs. “She is, after all, a woman who has never had to knuckle down to the slog of a 9-to-5 job. She has shouldered a sharply increased workload and a massive amount of responsibility in the past few months – and is looking and sounding great on it!” Part of the key to Camilla’s success is that even in the times when she was being heavily criticised, she stayed quiet, composed and focused on her charity work – all traits that Queen Elizabeth II wished other members of the royal family would embody during her years of watching the monarchy be knocked by crisis after crisis.
Queen Camilla has adopted an elegant and dutiful approach to her royal duties
(Image: Getty Images)
This elegant and dutiful approach has remained the hallmark of Camilla’s character ever since she married Charles 19 years ago in 2005. “I think that whereas Charles was rather jealous of Diana’s success, he could not be more proud of Camilla, who has come to this role late in life and without the safety net of an adoring public,” says Jennie. “These difficult few months will have made his love even deeper.” Indeed, the King and Queen’s relationship is said to be stronger than ever, something the public have seen on a regular basis, particularly following King Charles’ return to public life following his treatment for cancer.
Queen Camilla has seen a huge rise in her popularity
(Image: Getty Images)
Reflecting on how Camilla’s dedication to hard work is in part thanks to the couple’s closeness, Jennie adds, “I think part of it is because she so much wants the man she loves to be proud of her. But it must also be so gratifying to have earned widespread approval, even affection, from a public who once ganged up against her as the ‘other woman’ who made Diana so unhappy. “I think Diana was absolutely right to tell me that Camilla was ‘loyal’ and that Charles’ love for Camilla was stronger than any marriage he might ever have made.” Born in London on 17 July, 1947 to Major Bruce and Rosalind Shand, Camilla had no idea of the role that lay ahead of her – or, indeed, that she would go on to be lauded for her charity work that is dear to her heart.
Queen Camilla is an important advocate for domestic abuse
(Image: 2022 Getty Images)
“We have tended to see Camilla simply as Charles’ supportive wife, which she undoubtedly is, but she has also shown in the past few years that she is a serious campaigner on major issues,” says Jennie. “She could easily have kept a relatively low profile, but she decided to use her influence on matters that mean a lot to her.” Away from the goldfish bowl of royal life, the Queen loves nothing more than enjoying time with her family. “She’s a mother, a grandmother, a wife and now at a point in her life when most people are enjoying the peace of later life, she’s the Queen, with all the responsibilities that come with the role. “It’s quite something to expect of her, particularly after the vitriol she endured because she loves a man called Charles,” adds Jennie.
Queen Camilla is busier than ever before as she celebrates her 77th birthday
(Image: Getty Images)
Even though Camilla will spend part of her birthday at the State Opening of Parliament, she will have one overriding wish, according to Jennie. “I don’t think we should forget that Camilla has had to deal with the emotional trauma of her husband’s cancer diagnosis and treatment, while taking on more responsibility. “I imagine she would have liked nothing better than to look after him while he goes through this – but duty continues to call. I think all she could wish for is the King’s all-clear as she deserves a birthday celebration with her husband at her side.”Story SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterCommentMore OnQueen CamillaKing Charles IIICharles and CamillaRoyal Family
