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The recent revelation of King Charles’ cancer diagnosis has understandably stirred concern for the monarch’s health, particularly given the unconventional home remedies he reportedly favors. However, amidst the somber atmosphere, a ray of light has emerged in the form of the “hot equerry,” who has captured public attention and become a social media sensation.
Referred to affectionately as “Major Eye Candy” or Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson, the hot equerry assumed his role as the King’s right-hand man in September 2022. His presence has been notably prominent at significant royal events, including the coronation, and accompanying the King and Queen on official visits abroad.
At 40 years old, Thompson hails from the fifth Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and has a distinguished military background. His rise through the ranks culminated in his promotion to Super Equerry upon King Charles’ ascension to the throne. Notably, Thompson previously escorted Queen Elizabeth during her visits to Balmoral Castle in 2018, demonstrating his trusted position within the royal household.
Despite his initial popularity, Thompson has recently faced heightened public scrutiny, prompting a transition to a more behind-the-scenes role. This move was likely spurred by intrusive inquiries into his personal life, including his relationship status, which he sought to shield from the spotlight. Nonetheless, he remains the senior equerry to King Charles and Queen Camilla, albeit with a reduced public-facing profile.
The term “equerry” refers to an officer responsible for attending to and overseeing the needs of a member of the royal family. While their duties primarily revolve around providing logistical support and assistance, equerries often become recognizable figures due to their proximity to royalty. Interestingly, there seems to be a trend of equerries garnering attention for their striking appearance, leading some to speculate whether a certain allure is a prerequisite for the role, or if it’s simply coincidental that many equerries happen to be visually appealing. Nonetheless, the fascination with figures like Lieutenant Colonel Thompson highlights the enduring intrigue surrounding the British monarchy and those who serve it.