Camilla was “demonized” by the public, expert says

Queen Camilla is known as a straightforward, no-nonsense figure who may never be truly loved by the British public but has earned their grudging respect. Expert Ribeira says her best strategy is to keep being herself—loyal, devoted, and persistent despite years of criticism.

Supported by her husband, the Royal Family, and lifelong friend Annabel Elliot, Camilla’s steady “keep calm and carry on” attitude is key to her ongoing redemption.

Annabel reveals new details on Queen Camilla and King Charles’ marriage

Camilla and her sister Annabel were inseparable growing up. They married in the same year, had children around the same time, and enjoyed family holidays together.

Though Annabel stayed out of the public eye, she recently spoke in the BBC1 documentary Charles III: The Coronation Year, highlighting Camilla as King Charles’ steady “rock” through difficult times.

“She is his rock — loyal and steady,” Annabel said. “They are like yin and yang, very different but perfectly balanced.”

Richard Jackson, Bishop of Hereford, noted their strong family bond during the coronation, saying it felt like a warm family event, not just a royal ceremony.

“It was quite a moment”

Anabel Elliot has run her interior design and antiques business in Dorset for over 30 years. In 2014, she was named the fifth most influential female interior designer in the UK.

She worked closely with King Charles, starting with his Welsh home, Llwywormwood, purchased in 2006. Between 2005 and 2008, she earned over $380,000 for her work, which some saw as cronyism, but Clarence House defended her as a trusted, established designer.

Queen Camilla often travels across the UK, and despite many aides, Anabel remains by her sister’s side, advising her. She was also present at King Charles’s coronation, supporting Queen Camilla.

Annabel Elliot had important role in the coronation

The documentary Charles III: The Coronation Year gave a rare look behind the scenes. Annabel watched Camilla walk to Westminster Abbey for her coronation and became emotional.

Annabel and Fiona, close friends of Camilla, served as Ladies in Attendance during the ceremony.

Annabel recalled watching the Queen’s coronation as a child on a tiny black-and-white TV and said, “Seeing the golden coach with my sister inside was surreal. I couldn’t believe it was real.”

Before entering the Abbey, she felt nervous for Camilla, who is smaller than her, wondering, “Is she going to be okay?”