The Princess Kate 100-year-old woman moment became one of the warmest highlights of a Buckingham Palace reception held to mark what would have been Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday.
The Princess of Wales spoke with Joan Illingworth, a centenarian from Bradford, during the royal gathering on Tuesday, April 21. After asking about her self-care secrets, Kate gave her a simple three-word compliment: “You look amazing.”
Joan Illingworth also shared a light-hearted exchange with Prince William. William joked that he could not believe she was 100 and asked whether he needed to call security because she had “snuck in.”
Mrs Illingworth later said the Prince of Wales told her she looked well for her age and asked about her secret. She reportedly credited clotted cream fudge and Liquorice Allsorts for helping her stay youthful.
King Charles’s Reception for Queen Elizabeth II’s Centenary
King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted the Buckingham Palace reception to honour Queen Elizabeth II, who was born on April 21, 1926. The event brought together members of the Royal Family, representatives from the late Queen’s former patronages, and British centenarians.
The official Royal Family website said the King and Queen hosted the reception with members of the Royal Family in the Marble Hall to conclude the day’s commemorations. The reception included representatives from organisations linked to Queen Elizabeth II’s long public service.
Guests enjoyed a birthday cake decorated with “100,” while a band performed “Happy Birthday.” King Charles and Queen Camilla also handed out official 100th-birthday cards to guests celebrating the same milestone.
In another touching moment, Mrs Illingworth helped cut the cake. When she said she could not manage it, the King stepped in and said, “Let me do that,” before helping her with the task.
The reception was part of a wider week of royal events remembering Queen Elizabeth II’s life and service. The King and Queen also visited an exhibition at Buckingham Palace featuring more than 300 items from the late Queen’s wardrobe.
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Princess Anne officially opened the Queen Elizabeth II Garden in Regent’s Park on April 21. On the same day, the King and Queen visited the British Museum to view design recommendations for a new memorial to the late Queen.
