King Charles 'becomes tense when Camilla is not around' as Queen holds pivotal role

The monarch appeared relaxed and at ease whilst speaking with volunteers at the Deptford facility, which coincided with the first anniversary of the Coronation Food Project.

According to body language expert Darren Stanton, the King's composed demeanour reflects a significant transformation in his public persona.

This evolution in Charles's confidence and social ease can be attributed to Queen Camilla's influence since their 2005 marriage, with Stanton noting she has been "a catalyst for change" in helping the King become more social and affectionate.

Looking back at footage from previous years, Stanton noted a marked difference in Charles's earlier public appearances.

"When the then-Prince Charles attended events, he was always quite reticent towards the public," Stanton explained.

The expert pointed particularly to Charles's engagement interview with Princess Diana in the 1980s as evidence of his previous demeanour.

"In the earlier stages of his life, he was never that confident. If you look back to his engagement interview with the late Princess Diana in the 1980s, he was quite a nervous man and made this clear through his gestures," Stanton said.

Despite his popularity, the King would previously shy away from public interaction, with Stanton noting: "He never used to make a beeline towards the crowds behind the barrier."

Queen Camilla's influence on the King has been particularly evident in their joint public appearances, according to Stanton.

"When he attends an event with Camilla, you can see him looking for her and he appears tense when she's not around," the expert claimed.

The Queen often provides reassurance through subtle physical gestures, with Stanton noting: "Often she will touch him on the arm or the flat of the back as a reassuring gesture."

Her less formal background has helped Charles break free from rigid royal protocols.

"She is from an affluent background but with less rules and regulations. She's shown Charles he can loosen up and be more loving," Stanton explained.

The expert believes Camilla has empowered Charles to develop his own leadership style, saying: "I think Camilla has made Charles feel confident to be the King he wants to be, and do things his way."

The King's increased confidence is evident in his current body language, according to Stanton.

"Charles has become a lot more tactile and just recently, we saw someone ask for a hug and he obliged, he was happy to do that," the expert noted.

His evolution is particularly visible in his physical demeanour, with Stanton observing the absence of nervous gestures like hands in pockets or playing with cufflinks.

The monarch now maintains strong eye contact and keeps his hands by his side, demonstrating increased self-assurance. His sense of humour has also flourished, showing a more relaxed approach to his role.

"He clearly doesn't take himself too seriously, which is great," Stanton said, adding that Charles appears "genuinely interested" in his interactions with dignitaries, celebrities and the public.