This traditional speech was provided by Queen Elizabeth II since 1957. On Sunday, for the first time, her son will take over.
A first image of King Charles III’s Christmas message, which will be broadcast on British television on Sunday at 3 p.m. (French time), was unveiled Friday evening by Buckingham Palace. The 74-year-old monarch will appear to the saint in St. George’s Chapel for this traditional address, his first since the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8.
Since 1957, and until last year, Elizabeth II addressed Britons every December 25 in a pre-recorded speech. The BBC recalls that in 2021, in what was to be her final Christmas message, she spoke of “passing the baton” to the new generation.
A tribute will be paid
In this first photo, King Charles III appears dressed in a blue suit. He stands in front of a tree lit up with garlands and covered with plastic-free and recyclable decorations, as the British media specifies, which adds that Charles III will salute the memory of his mother during this speech.
The place chosen for the recording of this message already has the air of homage. The British royal family has gathered there for many weddings and funerals. A private ceremony was held there for Queen Elizabeth II hours after her state funeral in Westminster Abbey on September 19. She rests at the King George VI Memorial, at St. George’s Chapel, alongside her husband Prince Philip.
