A radio station in England has issued a groveling apology after accidentally announcing the death of King Charles III. Radio Caroline, based in Essex, blamed the mistake on technical issues at its main studio.
Station manager Peter Moore explained in a social media statement that a computer error triggered the death of a monarch procedure, which all U.K. stations keep ready but hope never to use. The protocol was activated on Tuesday afternoon, May 19, mistakenly announcing that the King had passed away.
"Radio Caroline then fell silent as would be required, which alerted us to restore programming and issue an on-air apology," Moore said. He added that the station has been pleased to broadcast the monarch's Christmas messages and hopes to do so for many years to come. "We apologize to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused."
How the shocking announcement played out
According to a clip published by The Telegraph, Radio Caroline was playing the song "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes when the music abruptly stopped. A man then announced: "This is Radio Caroline. We have suspended our normal programs until further notice as a mark of formal respect following the passing of His Majesty King Charles III."
The voice continued: "His Majesty King Charles III has passed away. As a mark of respect, we will now be playing suitable continuous music until further notice." The announcement also claimed that news media had confirmed the death, before the British national anthem was broadcast.
The 77-year-old monarch, however, was actually alive and well, in Northern Ireland for a three-day royal visit with Queen Camilla. The Palace has not issued a public statement regarding the radio station's gaffe.
Charles' cancer recovery
Last December, Charles opened up on live television about his recovery from cancer. In February 2024, the King revealed his cancer diagnosis, which was detected after a corrective procedure for an enlarged prostate. In his TV address, he said: "Today I am able to share with you the good news that thanks to early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to doctor's orders, my own schedule of cancer treatment can be reduced in the new year." He called this milestone a personal blessing and a testimony to advances in cancer care.
