King Charles will be featured in a new documentary presented by the veteran broadcaster who reportedly refused to cover his Coronation back in May 2023. The BBC today announced a new three-part series made by The Garden titled Dimbleby on the Monarchy, which will look at the British monarchy and how it is evolving just as King Charles approaches the first anniversary of his Coronation.
David Dimbleby, 85, who has spent many years as a commentator on royal events while also covering countless major events in politics and current affairs, last year reportedly dismissed any offers to cover the monarch’s Coronation as he didn’t want to “play second fiddle” according to the Times.
The journalist, who fronted the BBC’s coverage of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, has previously admitted he doesn’t understand the public’s infatuation with the Royal Family. At the time, he told the publication: “I think it’s an irrational system. And I think it’s a taboo subject in this country to talk about it. I think it’s a very strange institution to have in the 21st century.”
His younger brother, Jonathan Dimbleby, famously interviewed Charles as Prince of Wales back in 1994 for his ITV documentary Charles: The Private Man, the Public Role, during which the then-prince spoke about his first marriage with the late Princess Diana and his relationship with the now-Queen Camilla.
Jonathan Dimbleby has also written the King’s biography titled: Prince of Wales: A Biography based on his interviews with the monarch.
The new documentary will examine how the monarchy works, delivering a fresh appraisal of an old institution as it embarks on a new chapter in its history.
Dimbleby will explore its power, wealth and public role and talk as well as ask about whether and how it can evolve.
The new series will feature insiders’ takes as well as the public’s on what today’s monarchy tells us about modern Britain.
David Dimbleby said of the new show: “It was the late Queen herself who said back in 1992 ‘No institution – City, Monarchy, whatever – should expect to be free from the scrutiny of those who give it their loyalty and support, not to mention those who don’t.’
“I have often thought about that comment and it’s a challenge I look forward to taking up.”
Dimbleby on the Monarchy, for BBC One and iPlayer, is made by The Garden, part of ITV Studios.
It was commissioned by Jack Bootle, BBC Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual.
The executive producer is Edmund Coulthard, the series producer is Lauren Vanderkar and the series director is Christian Collerton.
It is written and presented by David Dimbleby. Simon Young is the Commissioning Editor for the BBC.
