King Charles’ right-hand man Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson is transitioning into a new role after gaining widespread attention for his striking appearance during the coronation celebrations. The senior aide, known as 'the hot equerry,' has shifted to a more executive and less public-facing position within the palace.
Thompson, aged 40, continues to serve as the senior equerry to the King and Queen but will now operate behind the scenes to support the King, who is undergoing cancer treatment. The Times reported that Thompson was uncomfortable with the public spotlight he received after accompanying the royals to various events.
Thompson's viral fame began after King Charles' accession in September 2022, with a video of him entering Buckingham Palace garnering millions of views on TikTok. The equerry, a member of the 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland, gained prominence in 2018 when he escorted Queen Elizabeth for a battalion review at Balmoral Castle.
Following the Queen's passing, Thompson was promoted to Super Equerry to King Charles and has since been a visible presence at significant royal events. Notably, he played a key role during the King's coronation at Westminster Abbey, overseeing ceremonial proceedings and assisting with robe changes.
Thompson's charm and sense of style have earned him admiration, with Tatler ranking him highly on its Social Power Index. Last year, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel and was recently seen in public with Olivia Lewis, a PR executive he reportedly met through his royal duties.
Thompson's personal life has also attracted attention, with reports of his separation from his wife and his blossoming relationship with Lewis. The couple is said to be happy and well-suited, marking a new chapter in the equerry's life.
