King Charles has paid a moving tribute to his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, on what would have been her 100th birthday today, April 21, 2026.
Elizabeth Wasn’t Expected to Become Queen Until King Edward VIII Altered the Course of History Forever
Charles spoke directly from the heart in Her Majesty’s library at her beloved Balmoral Castle, where she passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96.
When Elizabeth was a princess, her father, King George V, was the reigning monarch. As a child, she wasn’t expected to become Queen, but in 1936, the abdication of King Edward VIII transformed Elizabeth’s life, altering the course of history forever.
Edward’s controversial decision to abandon the throne to marry socialite and American divorcee Wallis Simpson would prove fatal for Elizabeth’s father, as it was thought that the pressures of being King contributed to his early death.
Princess Elizabeth’s father’s accession to the throne made her destined to reign. It was a reality that forced her to embrace a life of stability, public service, and an unwavering commitment to the crown.
It was that steadfast commitment that ultimately came to define her record-breaking 70-year reign. Princess Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth at the age of 25. The first coronation ceremony ever televised, on June 2, 1953, was a global event said to “modernize the monarchy.“
The Queen Was a Symbol of Hope and the Embodiment of Continuity
Elizabeth was viewed as a “symbol of hope” and a constant source of inspiration. Her two favorite mottos were “keep calm and carry on” and “never explain, never complain.”
The Queen was the embodiment of continuity, offering a unifying presence in a rapidly shifting world. Her life was dedicated to public service and helping others.
Her Majesty supported hundreds of charities throughout her lifetime and considered her royal engagements and charity appearances among the most crucial aspects of her life.
Queen Elizabeth was also well-known for her impressive collection and lifelong love of Corgis. She had over 30 Corgis during her reign.
Perhaps the most famous pet parent of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed, she oversaw a breeding program at Windsor Castle. She adored her dogs as they were a constant source of companionship and unconditional love.
Queen Elizabeth was married to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, on November 20, 1947. The royal couple was married for over 73 years until Prince Philip’s death in April 2021.
Together, Elizabeth and Philip had four children: King Charles III, Princess Anne, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh.
The Queen Was No Stranger to Scandals and Never Let Them Tarnish Her Crown
During the Queen’s legendary reign, she was no stranger to scandals. From the tragic death of the beloved Princess Diana in 1997 to the famous “annus horribilis” of 1992. Then, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s disruptive “Megxit” from the royal family.
Finally, Andrew’s infamous relationship with known sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Queen Elizabeth never let any of it tarnish her crown and maintained her reputation.
There is now a permanent memorial in St. James Park in London featuring statues of Queen Elizabeth in her Garter Robes. Not far behind is her late husband, Prince Philip, dressed in his naval uniform.
The memorial was inspired by a famous portrait by Italian artist Pietro Annigoni. It depicts her in her younger days, only a few years into her reign.
King Charles Released a Poignant Video Message to Honor the Queen
In a poignant video message released today in Britain, the King declared,
“Today, as we mark what would have been my beloved mother’s one hundredth birthday, my Family and I pause to reflect on the life and loss of a Sovereign who meant so much to us all and to celebrate anew the many blessings of her memory.”
He continued,
“Her near-century was one of remarkable change and yet, through each passing decade, through every transformation, she remained constant, steadfast and wholly devoted to the people she served.”
The King added,
“Millions will remember her for moments of national significance; many others for a fleeting personal encounter, a smile, a kind word that lifted spirits…. or for that marvelous twinkle of the eye when sharing a marmalade sandwich with Paddington Bear in the final months of her life.”
Charles continued,
“Much about the times we now live in I suspect may have troubled her deeply, but I take heart from her belief that goodness will always prevail and that a brighter dawn is never far from the horizon. For as a young Princess Elizabeth put it in her first ever public broadcast, aged just 14, we can each play our part ‘to make the world of tomorrow a better and happier place. It is a belief which I share, with all my heart.”
He said,
“So young or old, and whatever our differences, let us therefore seek to follow this example as we make today not the marking of a milestone felt by absence but the celebration of a life well-lived, and a legacy of hope, as we strive together towards a better, happier tomorrow. One rooted in peace, justice, prosperity, and security. In this, I renew my own solemn pledge of duty and service to you all.”
King Charles sweetly concluded,
“God bless you, darling Mama; you remain forever in our hearts and prayers.”
And as always, don’t forget to check back with Daily Soap Dish for all of the latest news on the royal family right here.
