Princess Anne makes a rare comment about Queen Camilla

Princess Anne has spoken about Queen Camilla in a new documentary set to air on Boxing Day.

The Princess Royal, 73, is one of several commenters in the 90-minute film — Charles III: The Coronation — which gives a behind the scenes glimpse at the preparations for the Coronation of King Charles.

Speaking about her sister-in-law, Anne said of Camilla: “I've known her a long time, off and on. Her understanding of her role and how much difference it makes to the King has been absolutely outstanding.”

She went on to add: “This role is not something that she would have been a natural for, but she does it really well. And she provides that change of speed and tone.”

The Princess Royal also noted that Queen Camilla is ‘equally modern’, referencing her brother’s - King Charles - forward looking approach to the Royal family and his duties as King.

Before he was crowned in May of this year, the King has been outspoken on environmental issues. He has been vocal about concern for the climate crisis, and has campaigned for conservation and organic farming among other causes.

He recently gave opening remarks at the global climate conference COP28, saying: “Some important progress has been made, but it worries me greatly that we remain so dreadfully far off track.”

Charles III: The Coronation will air on BBC One and iPlayer at 6.50pm on December 26. It is said to show a lighter side of the Royals.

At one point, the King pokes fun at what he calls his “sausage fingers”, as his son, William, Prince of Wales, helps him with his robes.

Speaking of Charles' succession, Anne goes on to say, “To be honest I’m not sure that anybody can really prepare themselves for that kind of change… not easily. And then the change happens and you go 'OK, I now have to get on with it'.”

Charles was the oldest person to ever accede to the British throne, crowned just before his 74th birthday, after being the longest-serving heir apparent.

"Monarchy is a 365 days a year occupation, it doesn’t stop because you change monarchs, for whatever reason,” notes the Princess Royal.

Whether the Royals will be tuning into the documentary themselves is yet unknown, especially as the family have a tradition of playing charades late into the night on Christmas Day.

Although, we doubt anyone will be acting out Harry’s book, Spare.

Charles III: The Coronation - airs on BBC One and iPlayer at 6.50pm on December 26.