King Charles’s viral bodyguard retires after US State Visit

The unnamed guard has been a staple piece of the monarch’s security team

King Charles’ viral bearded bodyguard has retired from his official duties following years of dedicated service to the Crown.

The security chief, whose identity has never been publicly disclosed by the Palace, wrapped up his final assignment during the monarch’s state visit to America earlier this week.

The four-day tour proved particularly demanding for the protection team.

Security measures were significantly intensified after a shooting incident occurred at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 25.

American agents deployed snipers and sophisticated drones while British officers worked alongside them.

Throughout the visit, the veteran security guard remained constantly at His Majesty’s side.

The unnamed guardian has cultivated quite a following on social media.

Royal watchers have become captivated by his striking facial hair and ever-present umbrella, which enthusiasts have dubbed a “gunbrella.”

King Charles’ viral bearded bodyguard has retired from his official duties following years of dedicated service to the Crown

 | GETTY

The accessory sparked considerable speculation on TikTok, with fans convinced it concealed gadgetry worthy of the silver screen.

“That thing he’s holding is a GUNbrella, not an umbrella,” one user remarked on X. Another declared: “I love him he needs to be the next James Bond such an amazing guy.”

Online admirers have even drawn comparisons to Colin Firth’s suave spy character Harry Hart from the Kingsman films.

He was first recognised by the public around the time of Queen Elizabeth II’s death in September 2022.

The security chief, whose identity has never been publicly disclosed by the Palace, wrapped up his final assignment during the monarch’s state visit to America earlier this week

 | GETTY

The security guard subsequently became a familiar figure at significant occasions in the royal calendar, including the Coronation and Royal Ascot.

During the May 2023 crowning ceremony, he demonstrated his characteristic professionalism as the newly crowned King greeted supporters along The Mall.

As King Charles chatted with well-wishers outside Buckingham Palace, the guard was overheard making a polite but firm request.

“Phones down as we come past, please,” he instructed the assembled crowds, encouraging them to “enjoy the moment” rather than view proceedings through their screens.

Despite this being intended as his final tour before retirement, the beloved guard will not be leaving the Palace entirely.

According to The Times, King Charles and Queen Camilla have personally requested that he remain with the royal household in a different capacity.

The couple are understood to be particularly fond of their long-serving security chief.

Rather than allowing him to retire for good, they have asked him to continue his association with the household in a fresh role.

It remains unclear precisely when he first joined the royal protection team, though his dedication has clearly earned him an enduring place within the King’s inner circle.