Tom Parker Bowles, son of Queen Camilla and acclaimed British food writer, has pushed back against long-running tabloid whispers about his mother’s supposed habits — from cigarettes to gin — and says the truth is far less dramatic.
Speaking candidly on a new episode of the podcast White Wine Question Time with Kate Thornton, the 50-year-old addressed popular stereotypes about his mother’s lifestyle, firmly putting old rumors to rest.
“She’s never even been tipsy — not once in my life,” he said. “She doesn’t drink gin. And she quit smoking decades ago.”
His comments come as a light-hearted but pointed response to persistent internet lore that Queen Camilla enjoys knocking back gin and tonics with a cigarette in hand. According to Tom, nothing could be further from the truth.
“She likes red wine,” he admitted, “but just a glass and a half. That’s about it. She’s a very moderate and sensible drinker.”
More fish than fags: Camilla’s quiet, grounded routine
In the same interview, Tom also gave listeners a glimpse into his mother’s relationship with food — something he knows a lot about, having built a career as a food writer and cookbook author.
