Preparations for King Charles III’s funeral are already in motion, as concerns grow over the ailing monarch’s health, with insiders acknowledging that “death is a possibility.”
“The business of planning his funeral has already begun,” a royal insider exclusively tells In Touch. “Unpleasant as it seems.”
Buckingham Palace confirmed to the outlet that “bridge plans are always updated on an ongoing basis as a matter of routine.”
In recent months, the King’s health has been in decline. Back in February, Buckingham Palace revealed that he had been diagnosed with cancer, just a week after undergoing prostate surgery.
Though the 75-year-old has resumed his royal duties, an insider notes that it hasn’t been easy. “He’s making public appearances, but they’re for shorter periods of time,” the source shares. “He’s often whisked in by helicopter and then whisked out. After an engagement, he needs a good rest.”
As In Touch previously reported, Charles was allegedly given just two years to live following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
“The palace is giving the impression that Charles is on the mend, but he’s still very sick,” an insider reveals. “Still, he’s the king, and palace officials are pragmatic enough to acknowledge that death is a real possibility.”
The king’s funeral plan, known as Operation Menai Bridge, takes its name from a suspension bridge in Wales—a tribute to King Charles III’s long tenure as the Prince of Wales. The meticulously detailed protocol will be set in motion the moment the 75-year-old passes away. The prime minister of the United Kingdom will be the first to receive the news, followed by key officials who will activate the plan.
What follows will be the official announcement of his passing, a period of national mourning, and the arrangements for his state funeral.
As The Crown has illustrated, preparations for a monarch’s funeral begin almost as soon as they take the throne. However, with Charles currently battling cancer, sources tell In Touch that the process has taken on a heightened sense of urgency. When Queen Elizabeth II died in 2022, her funeral involved ten days of ceremonies, 100 world leaders, and thousands of military personnel—highlighting the immense scale of what lies ahead.
When the time comes, the royal family will be prepared to hold a ceremony befitting a King. Charles’ unique preferences will undoubtedly shape his funeral. For instance, the music enthusiast personally commissioned new orchestral pieces for his coronation in May 2023. As a passionate gardener and environmental advocate, he also incorporated British wildflowers into the event.
“Officials will make sure a funeral for the king meets his wishes and expectations while following proper protocol,” an insider shares. “Charles at least can find some peace in that.”
Charles has served as the reigning monarch since September 2022, when he ascended the throne following the passing of his mother.
Having been heir apparent since 1952, Charles endured a record-breaking wait of over 70 years to become King. At 73, he made history as the oldest person in Britain to assume the throne.
But a state funeral isn’t the only thing on his mind. Committed to modernizing and streamlining the monarchy, Charles is actively shaping a future where fewer royals have the privilege of appearing on Buckingham Palace’s balcony during high-profile events like Trooping the Colour.
King Charles III plans to cut minor royals from the payroll, especially after Prince Andrew’s scandal and Harry & Meghan’s exit. With fewer working royals, there are no plans for replacements.
As Charles’ health declines, Prince William has taken on a larger role, actively participating in key decision-making.
