Jonathan «Jonny» Thompson, the 43-year-old senior equerry who became a popular internet figure while serving King Charles and Queen Camilla, is leaving royal service and the British Army after seven years at court and nearly 22 years in military uniform, according to British media reports. Buckingham Palace has not provided a detailed explanation for the departure, though officials confirmed to outlets like the BBC and Express that the King and Queen were aware of his plans in advance and expressed gratitude for his years of support.
How Major Jonny Thompson Stole the Spotlight From King Charles
Thompson first captured public attention in September 2022 when he appeared directly behind King Charles following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Standing tall in traditional Scottish kilt and military dress uniform, the high-ranking officer quickly became a fixture of television broadcasts covering royal engagements. According to social media tracking and tabloid reports cited by the Daily Mail, internet users dubbed him «Major Eye Candy» and «Major Hottie,» transforming him into one of the most recognizable faces associated with the modern British monarchy.
His duties as an equerry required him to manage daily travel schedules, coordinate high-profile meetings, and accompany the sovereign on state visits. During the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla at Westminster Abbey, Thompson walked prominently between the royals and young Prince George. He also welcomed foreign dignitaries, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his 2023 visit to Buckingham Palace.
Public Scrutiny and Private Relationship Scandals at Buckingham Palace
As the digital fascination grew, royal watchers began questioning whether the intense media spotlight was overshadowing the sovereign. Discussions on online platforms like Reddit referenced past tensions between King Charles and the late Princess Diana, with one user noting that the King may have felt eclipsed when crowds chanted for the military aide.
Alongside the public attention, Thompson’s private life became tabloid fodder. According to coverage by Se og Hør, Thompson separated from his wife Caroline—with whom he shares a son—after becoming romantically involved with Olivia Lewis, a PR adviser who also worked for Charles and Camilla. While British outlets reported that Thompson and his wife were already separated before the new relationship became public, the romance sparked widespread coverage. Thompson and Lewis subsequently married and welcomed a daughter, Theodora, following a 2024 engagement highlighted by society magazine Tatler.
Shifting Roles Behind the Scenes and Recent Tours
Amid mounting public attention, Thompson was shifted away from the most highly visible frontline duties in 2024, as noted by the Express. Despite being parked behind the scenes, he retained his senior equerry responsibilities, coordinating logistics for royal tours. That enduring operational presence was underscored in April during a state visit to the United States.
While attending a King’s Trust gala in New York, Thompson crossed paths with 85-year-old television personality Martha Stewart. According to reports in the Daily Mail, Stewart described the military officer as «totally charming,» «completely cool,» and «exceedingly handsome,» proving that his personal appeal remained intact even after stepping back from daily public-facing photo ops.
Transition to the Private Sector After Two Decades of Service
Thompson’s sudden exit marks the end of a nearly 22-year military career alongside his seven-year tenure working directly for the sovereign household. Buckingham Palace confirmed he is transitioning to a role in the private sector. Although royal aides emphasized that the departure is amicable and planned, the sudden exit deprives the court of a trusted administrative planner just months after high-profile international tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jonathan «Jonny» Thompson?
Jonathan Thompson is a 43-year-old military officer and former senior equerry who served Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles, and Queen Camilla before leaving royal service for the private sector.
Why did Jonathan Thompson leave Buckingham Palace?
Buckingham Palace has not released an official reason for his departure, though outlets report he is moving on to a career in the private sector with the full knowledge and gratitude of the King and Queen.
What was his official role as equerry?
As an equerry, Thompson accompanied the British monarch on official state visits, coordinated travel itineraries, managed daily schedules, and assisted visiting foreign dignitaries.
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