When King Charles became king after Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022, Camilla became Queen Camilla. But royal protocol raises a question: what happens to her if she outlives Charles and Prince William becomes king?
If King Charles dies, there is no break in the monarchy—Prince William would immediately become king, and Catherine (Kate Middleton) would become queen consort. Catherine, Princess of Wales
Camilla would no longer hold the title of queen consort. Instead, she would become Queen Dowager, the formal title for a king’s widow. She would still remain part of the royal family but with a reduced public role, depending on the new king’s decisions.
She would likely continue some charity work, but her position would shift as Prince William and Catherine take the lead of the monarchy.
As for residence, she and Charles currently live at Clarence House, and it’s unclear whether she would remain there under William’s reign—though tradition suggests she would likely be allowed to stay.
In short, Camilla wouldn’t leave royal life entirely, but her role and influence would significantly decrease once William becomes king.