King Charles and Queen Camilla’s relationship began with a controversial affair while both were married to others. Though initially disliked by the public and some Royals, Camilla eventually became a respected member of the Royal Family.

Camilla grew up in Sussex with her close sister Annabel, who mostly stayed out of the spotlight but recently shared insights about Charles and Camilla’s marriage.

Their relationship dates back to 1972, introduced by a mutual friend at a polo match. They dated briefly before Charles joined the Royal Navy, during which time Camilla got engaged to Andrew Parker Bowles.

King Charles & Queen Camilla

Bowles and Camilla married in 1973, but Camilla stayed close to Charles. In 1980, Charles began dating Diana Spencer, who initially got along with Camilla. However, Diana later felt threatened by Camilla.

Charles and Camilla’s affair reportedly began in 1986, while he was still married to Diana. Diana confronted Camilla after learning the truth.

Charles and Diana separated in 1992 and finalized their divorce in 1996, though they kept up their royal duties during the split.

Infamous Tampongate scandal

By late 1989, rumors about Charles and Camilla’s affair were public. Months after Charles and Diana separated, a leaked phone call exposed their intimate conversation.

The transcript shocked the nation, with Charles saying things like “live inside her trousers.” A poll showed 68% believed Charles ruined his reputation, and 42% wanted Prince William to become king instead.

Camilla faced harsh criticism from both the public and the Royal Family.

Queen Camilla was afraid of leaving her house

Camilla was unpopular with the British public and even Queen Elizabeth initially avoided her. According to royal expert Angela Levin, Camilla faced severe public backlash, often staying home to avoid abuse and sending friends on errands for her. She was labeled harsh names like “rottweiler” and endured much mistreatment. Charles personally paid for her security until their 2005 marriage, after which she received publicly funded protection.

“She can never be sure how people are going to react”

Levin said Charles didn’t realize how hard things were for Camilla at first. She had no protection because she wasn’t officially royal. When he found out, he paid for her security himself.

Though Camilla grew more popular over time, Levin thinks she still “bears the scars” and often feels nervous about how people see her. Some still strongly oppose her.

Today, public opinion has changed a lot. PR expert Luana Ribeira calls Camilla’s acceptance a “PR miracle,” though she may never fully win everyone’s hearts, especially given the strong feelings from the 1990s.