King Charles issued an apology from Idris Elba following eventful visit, claims lip reader
King Charles III was reportedly given an unexpected apology by Sir Idris Elba during a surprise encounter in Antigua earlier this week, following a rather eventful few days for the British monarch.
The Luther actor, 54, crossed paths with the King at Nelson's Dockyard - a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island - on Monday (2 November), where the pair exchanged a friendly greeting.
According to a number of onlookers news outlets, including ITV News, Elba approached 77-year-old Charles and asked: "How are you?"
In response, the King appeared surprised to see the much-loved movie star, asking him: "What are you doing here?"
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Clearly in good spirits, Elba replied, 'I get around', before affectionately patting the monarch on the arm.
The Golden Globe winner then became more serious, asking Charles: "How are you doing though, are you having a good time?"
He also issued a five-word apology which has since sparked widespread discussions online.
"Sorry about the prime minister," Elba said.
The comment was initially understood to be a reference to Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who has openly expressed his personal desire for the country to become a republic and move away from the British monarchy.
However, The Independent later claimed that Elba's words were understood to be a sympathetic remark about the King's recent experience in the rain.
Charles found himself caught in a torrential downpour during celebrations marking Antigua and Barbuda's 45th anniversary of independence the day prior, with footage showing him appearing to search for an umbrella while Queen Camilla managed to get to shelter.
Charles later saw the funny side of the incident, joking: "I’ve started growing watercress on my trousers."
The King's visit to Antigua comes as he prepares to deliver the keynote address opening the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) later today (3 Nov).
The summit brings together leaders from across the Commonwealth's 56 member states and is expected to address Britain's historical role in the transatlantic slave trade, including calls for a formal apology and reparations.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he is open to listening to calls for a formal apology, although he has ruled out financial reparations.
Meanwhile, Gaston Browne has reiterated his support for Antigua and Barbuda becoming a republic, adding another layer of sensitivity to the King's visit.
Elba, who was hosting the One Commonwealth Night concert at Nelson's Dockyard as a goodwill ambassador for The King's Trust, has a longstanding connection to the royal charity.
The organisation, formerly known as The Prince's Trust, helped fund his place at the National Youth Music Theatre when he was younger, giving him an opportunity to pursue his acting ambitions.
Elba was knighted earlier this year for his services to young people.
Topics: King Charles III, Royal Family, UK News, Celebrity, Entertainment
Rhianna Benson
