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As viewers of The Crown have seen, funeral preparations for British monarchs begin as soon as they ascend the throne. However, behind the scenes at Buckingham Palace, there seems to be more urgency in the planning for King Charles III's funeral and what will come after. Insiders say that while palace officials are giving the impression that the King's health is improving after a serious illness, he is still said to be very ill.
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Charles assumed the throne at the age of 73, making him the oldest monarch to do so in British history. Just two years into his reign, doctors announced they had found cancer during a routine procedure to treat benign prostate enlargement. According to sources, Charles frequently needs to be flown by helicopter to rest after public engagements, underscoring how much he is in need of recuperation. It was previously reported that he was only given two years to live after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
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The "minute-by-minute death plan" referenced in the headlines is in reference to King Charles' longtime position as the Prince of Wales. As heir apparent for over 70 years, detailed plans would have been in place for some time regarding what would happen upon his passing. With his current health issues, it seems these preciously-prepared procedures are now being implemented more urgently behind the scenes.
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His coronation ceremony was a more modern affair than his mother Queen Elizabeth II's, reflecting Charles' preferences. Where she had over 8,000 guests and elaborate dresses worn by royals, his event featured only 2,000 attendees and a casual dress code for family members. As King, Charles has further embraced informal formality, choosing to voice opinions on issues and open more royal residences to the public.
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Insiders indicate Charles is looking towards a slimmed-down monarchy in the future, with fewer working royals having roles like appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony. With Prince Andrew's scandal and Prince Harry and Meghan's departure, the ranks have thinned. Charles is said to be involving Prince William more in decisions, preparing the heir apparent to take on a larger role as the King's health deteriorates.
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While his health is declining, Charles has remained actively engaged in affairs of state. He has praised ordinary citizens who confronted far-right extremists during this summer's riots in the UK, commending their compassion and resilience in the face of hostility. In calls with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and police leaders, Charles addressed the strain on officers from maintaining order amid riots fueled by racial tensions. According to a palace spokesperson, these discussions came after private consultations on how the events impacted communities.
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Charles' funeral will likely reflect his preferences for informality and modernism seen elsewhere. As he oversees transition plans with William taking on more responsibility, the future of the slimmed-down monarchy is becoming clearer. While the 'minute-by-minute death plan' referenced a grim reality of the King's health, his active role underscores his ongoing dedication to duties until the end. Charles seems determined to ensure a smooth transition that honors his vision for the institution to continue evolving and remaining relevant for generations to come.
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