Sam Amico
Queen Elizabeth II, who was the UK’s longest-serving monarch, had died at the age of 96. She reighned for 70 years, first coming to the throne in 1952. After the announcement of her death, several were left wondering who is going to take over.
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For starters, it should be noted that England’s royal line of succession is based almost entirely on the order of the Queen’s descendants — along with some help from Parliament.
Based on all that, the heir-apparent is Charles, Prince of Wales, the Queen’s eldest son. Charles is indeed likely to become King following Queen Elizabeth’s death, set to be coronated later. He is also the head of state for 14 Commonwealth realms.
Queen Elizabeth II Has Died
“The death of my beloved mother Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” The King said in a statement. “We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.”
Some had speculated that Charles would actually take over when the Queen turned 95 last year. But that would have required the Queen to step down, which she never did.
“Neither her physical nor her mental health are waning,” a source told People at the time.
A spokesperson for Prince Charles also denied the rumors.
A Tragic Day for the UK
“There are no plans for any change in arrangements at the age of 95 — or any other age,” the spokesperson told People.
With King Charles taking the British throne, his wife Camilla Parker Bowles took the title of Princess Consort when that day arrives.
All of the Queen’s children traveled to Balmoral earlier this day after she was put on medical supervision. Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle were all said to be present.
