NEED TO KNOW
- King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, via the iconic Doctor Who TARDIS on Thursday, July 23
- Charles, 77, opened the Games with a speech addressing plastic pollution and the importance of protecting the world’s oceans
- The royal couple previously saw the TARDIS during a 2013 visit to the set of Doctor Who in Cardiff, Wales
King Charles and Queen Camilla have left their cars at the palace for a faster form of transport: Doctor Who’s TARDIS!
The couple stepped out of the iconic 1960s-style police box from the iconic British TV sci-fi show about a time traveling adventurer at the Hydro stadium in Glasgow, Scotland, to launch the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games on Thursday, July 23.
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In a video showing the minutes leading up to their arrival, Scottish Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy and Scottish actor Greg McHugh were seen walking around the streets of the Scottish city wearing kilts when they heard a phone ring.
After arguing over who should answer the mysterious call, which turned out to be from the palace, the pair were asked to help Charles, 77, and Camilla, 79, travel from Balmoral Castle to the Commonwealth Games in time for the ceremony.
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Hoy said: “Hello your Majesties, your carriage awaits…” Charles and Camilla were seen stepping out of the TARDIS onstage to a round of applause.
They then walked toward their seats, which were located in the same row as Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh.
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra Youth Chorus performed the British national anthem, “God Save the King.”
The pair put on a stunning sartorial display as they stepped out wearing matching hues. Charles donned a crisp navy blue suit, complete with a pink tie, while Camilla sported a royal blue pantsuit.
Their unforgettable entrance brought memories of the late Queen Elizabeth’s arrival at the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony with James Bond. Daniel Craig, starred as Bond, who picked up the Queen from Buckingham Palace, before they helicoptered across London and parachuted into the Olympics venue.
This is not the first time that Charles has come face-to-face with the TARDIS. He and Camilla visited the Doctor Who set in Cardiff in 2013. Charles even showed off his impressive Dalek impression and said “Exterminate!” into a microphone, per the BBC.
Matt Smith, who played the Eleventh Doctor in the series, told the outlet that Charles first watched the show when he was 15.
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On Thursday evening, the King declared the 23rd Commonwealth Games open with a speech in which he addressed the environment.
Charles, who is famously eco-conscious, said halfway through his talk: “For these Games, the Relay has carried another message – to help remove the plastic pollution that harms our oceans and waterways, and can impact on human health.”
“Addressing plastic pollution complements the immense global efforts required to protect 30% of the world’s ocean by 2030,” he added. “Caring for the ocean’s natural capital ensures our communities and businesses can continue to thrive and vital global food resources can be enhanced through the establishment of marine reserves to No Take Zones, restore threatened marine ecosystems and diminished fish stocks.”
Charles also praised communities for welcoming the Baton Relay with “generosity and pride” over the past 500 days.
“Seeing the Batons arrive into Scotland today, in all their colorful glory, carried by inspiring athletes and para-athletes, reminds us once again that the Commonwealth is a unique and extraordinary family of nations,” he said.
“As we gather, we celebrate the dedication and talent of every athlete and team. Your perseverance inspires us, and we eagerly anticipate your achievements in the coming days,” Charles said.
The King extended his “warmest gratitude to the city of Glasgow, to all the athletes, to the organizers, volunteers and all those who have made this event possible.”