Gina Stewart, who affectionately refers to herself as the "world's hottest gran," credits none other than King Charles for inspiring her illustrious Playboy modeling career. Stewart, now 54, recalls her youthful encounter with the then Prince Charles during his visit to Pakuranga, New Zealand, alongside Princess Diana back in 1981. This fond memory has left quite the impression on Stewart, who reminisces about shaking the monarch-to-be's hand.
At school, news about Charles being kissed by a Playboy model back in 1979 circulated among her classmates, leaving quite the buzz. "We all knew at school he was kissed on the beach by a Playboy Bunny," she recalled, adding insight to how this captivating story led her to believe, "He was seen as a heart throb and maybe that's what inspired me to be a Playboy model when I grew up. I thought I would catch my handsome prince one day."
Gina reminisced about the day she met Charles as “a special moment” of her childhood. According to her, the prince took genuine interest and was engaging with the young students. "He even rode my best friend’s BMX bike around the school field, having us all in stitches," she smiled, adding, "I must admit he was very handsome, well-dressed and suave with a great sense of humor and kind personality."
Stewart highlighted Charles's understated charm, saying it contributed to making people feel comfortable around him. She continued to praise him as the new King, noting, "Seeing him now... it's clear those same qualities - his warmth, intelligence and sense of purpose - are still at the core of who he is," emphasizing the bright positive traits she observed as enduring through the years.
While Stewart's nostalgic narrative builds affection for royalty, recent developments surrounding another royal, Prince Andrew, cast shadows on the family's reputation. The Duke of York has been reported to the police over accusations of filing false information when establishing secret investment ventures. Graham Smith, the CEO of the Republic organization, brought forth allegations asserting Andrew's actions, including adopting the pseudonym Andrew Inverness to register a company named Naples Gold Ltd back in 2002.
Smith expressed concern over perceptions of accountability among the royal family, stating, "The royals appear to believe they can act with impunity, ... the apparent filing of false information may seem trivial, but the UK faces serious issues of fraud committed this way." This pointed remark underlines the pressing need for scrutiny on alleged royal wrongdoing.
The Met Police report suggests underlying motivations remain unclear, yet Smith insists there is public interest to pursue the matter: "... there must surely be a public interest... because it’s such a high-profile figure allegedly doing it." The backlash against Prince Andrew raises questions about integrity, with continuous scrutiny over his association with serious allegations of misconduct.
Meanwhile, across the North Sea, the Danish monarchy distinguishes itself amid stirring historical changes. King Frederik has audaciously altered the royal coat of arms to give prominence to Greenland and the Faroe Islands, which is interpreted by some as a rebuttal to former U.S. President Donald Trump's reiterated interest to purchase Greenland. Just under a year since his accession, the Danish king clearly signals his intent to preserve the integrity of these autonomous territories within Denmark.
This decision transitions away from the iconic three crowns, symbolic of the Kalmar Union, replacing them with more representative elements highlighting Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Following Greenlandic Prime Minister Múte Egede's calls for independence and reclaiming the colonial legacy, the coat of arms modification emphasizes unity within the kingdom.
Reflecting on this momentous change, King Frederik stated during his recent New Year speech, "We belong together," reinforcing loyalty amid shifting political tides. Sources confirm the changes were implemented following recommendations from expert committees post-accession, illustrating the royal house's proactive consideration of modern geopolitical contexts.
The historical ramifications of this adjustment resonate significantly, with experts acknowledging traditions dating back over 500 years have evolved alongside national sentiments. The shift is underscored by historian Dick Harrison pointing out the three crowns' legacy, noting, "The removal is a sensation..." This highlights the complete shift of sentiments from historical symbols to modern territorial realities.
While Gina Stewart fondly recalls her rosy interactions with King Charles, contrasting narratives around Prince Andrew and King Frederik portray the royal family as they navigate public perception amid contemporary challenges. Each story tells tales of charm, accountability, and progress, as royal figures grapple with their legacies—both past and present—in changing social landscapes.