King Charles’ ‘tears’ over “horror” tragedy in UK revealed by TV star
The Grenfell Tower fire remains one of the darkest moments in recent British history. In the early hours of June 14, 2017, a blaze tore through the West London tower block, killing 72 people and leaving countless families devastated. It was the deadliest residential fire the UK had seen since the Second World War, and its impact was felt far beyond the local community.
In the days that followed, the tragedy prompted widespread grief, anger, and reflection. Among those deeply affected was then Prince Charles, now King Charles III, who had long spoken publicly about building safety and environmental responsibility.
“There were tears in his eyes”
According to broadcaster and author Gyles Brandreth, the emotional toll on Charles was immediate and visible. Speaking this week on ITV’s This Morning, Brandreth recalled seeing him shortly after the disaster at a charity event.
He explained that Charles appeared visibly shaken. Brandreth said there were tears in his eyes as he reflected on the fire and its implications. He believed the tragedy struck especially close to home because it echoed warnings Charles had voiced for years about construction methods, materials, and how buildings should work in harmony rather than cutting corners.
Brandreth shared these memories while discussing Charles’ upcoming documentary, Finding Harmony: A King’s Vision, which explores the King’s decades long commitment to environmental causes and sustainable living. The documentary is set to air on Prime Video on February 6.
Praise, criticism, and public expectations
While many view Charles’ reaction as genuine and heartfelt, the conversation did not stop there. Fellow panelist Nicola Thorp raised a point that often surfaces when royals speak out after national tragedies.
She noted that some critics argue the royal family holds immense wealth and land, and therefore has the ability to create real, tangible change. Using Grenfell as an example, she pointed out that many survivors remained without permanent housing years later, leading some to question whether sympathy alone is enough.
Despite the debate, King Charles has consistently addressed tragedies both in the UK and abroad. Earlier this year, he issued a statement following a deadly fire at a New Year celebration in Crans Montana, Switzerland, where 41 people lost their lives.
In that message, he spoke of heartbreak and sorrow, expressing how devastating it was that a night meant for joy had ended in loss. It is a pattern that reflects how deeply such events continue to affect him, long after the headlines fade.
The Grenfell tragedy remains a scar on the nation, and for King Charles, it appears to have reinforced beliefs he has carried for much of his life about responsibility, safety, and the human cost of getting things wrong.
