King Charles celebrates 78th birthday with Elton John interview

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 14 Nov, 18:27 · Archive

King Charles marked his 78th birthday on 14 November with an interview alongside Elton John on Apple Music.

King Charles marked his 78th birthday on 14 November with an appearance on Elton John's Apple Music podcast, Rocket Hour. Prince William and Kate Middleton issued a birthday message via Instagram, writing 'Wishing a very Happy Birthday to His Majesty The King!'

During the interview, Charles and John discussed their favourite songs, including The Beatles' 'All You Need Is Love' and John's 'I'm Still Standing', which Charles chose for its 'message of resilience'. John joked about the song's title, quipping that he was 'still sitting'. Charles replied, 'With occasional bits dropping off here and there. I know this is a terrible problem as we get older.' The conversation highlighted the role of music in The King's Trust, which celebrates its 50th anniversary.

The birthday celebrations extended beyond the podcast. During a visit to a Croydon street market, crowds of stallholders and shoppers gathered around the King, who was serenaded with 'Happy Birthday' and presented with a birthday cake. He also visited the BRIT School in Croydon earlier in the day, where he was greeted by screaming teenagers.

How it is being reported

• Prince William, Kate Middleton celebrate King Charles’ 78th birthday with surprising Elton John tributeThe King celebrated his 78th birthday on Saturday.New York Post · 14 Nov, 18:16
• William and Kate's birthday message to King Charles as he appears on Elton John showKing Charles is celebrating his 78th birthday today, marking the day privately, but birthday wishes have been flooding in as he turns another year olderThe Mirror · 14 Nov, 11:02
• King Charles' two birthdays explained - and what it means for Prince William's future reignKing Charles is celebrating his 78th birthday today - even though the day is officially marked in June with the annual Trooping the Colour paradeThe Mirror · 14 Nov, 07:14

In this story: King Charles III · Prince William · Kate Middleton · Elton John · The King's Trust · Apple Music · Croydon

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