MAJOR Johnny Thompson appeared at a number of events in his role as right-hand man and squire to King Charles III.
Learn about the king’s bodyguard who won thousands of fans after his kilt-clad appearances with the royal family.
Who is Major Johnny Thompson?
Nicknamed ‘Major Eye Candy’ by fans on TikTok, Major Jonathan Thompson – known as Johnny – serves in the 5th Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
The Army officer was born in Morpeth, Northumberland.
He joined the Army in 2006 and is a platoon commander and is believed to have worked as Charles’ squire since 2020.
According to his LinkedIn profile, he graduated from Aberystwyth University in 2004 with a degree in economics and politics with international studies.
While at university he was a member of the undergraduate officer training corps.
Major Thompson had a long and constant presence alongside the Royals throughout his time working for them.
He was in the procession on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, when the Queen’s coffin was escorted from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall during its four-day stay in state.
He was also spotted accompanying Rishi Sunak to meet King Charles at Buckingham Palace when he became prime minister.
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He was seen at several royal events following Queen Elizabeth’s death.
Since entering the public eye, he has gained an army of fans.
What are Major Johnny Thompson’s duties?
Major Johnny Thompson is responsible for the detailed planning and execution of the King’s daily programs.
His role means he must attend public events and be in close contact with the monarch.
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He also maintains contact with the monarch while at royal residences such as Buckingham Palace.
However, on February 22, 2024, The times reported that the senior advisor has transitioned to a new role away from the spotlight.
It is understood that he was unhappy with the public attention he received.”
A palace source about Thompson’s change of position
According to a palace source, Major Thompson “continues to serve as senior equerry to the king and queen, albeit in a more executive capacity and with less public visibility.”
The Times specified that “he would have been uncomfortable with the public attention he gained after accompanying the king to a series of important events.”
In April 2024, he was seen in what has now become a rare public appearance alongside royalty.
Major Thompson was seen at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, for an Easter Sunday service.
Attending the service were King Charles, Queen Camilla and a host of other royals.
Fans noticed he wasn’t wearing his trademark kilt, opting for a sharp suit.
What is a squire?
Squires are appointed to their roles by working members of the Royal Family and are chosen from senior officers in the British Army.
The role involves being regularly present, both inside the royal residence and outside it, at public engagements.
The Royal Household also includes a number of “extra knights” – honorary appointees chosen from current and retired senior officers of the Royal Household.
There is also a Crown Equerry who is responsible for the Royal Mews Department and holds a distinct position.
Did Major Johnny Thompson work for the Queen?
Major Thompson worked for the royal household for several years.
He was one of the late queen’s most senior bodyguards and was seen at several events with her.
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Major Thompson first came to the attention of royal watchers when he was part of the Platinum Jubilee Thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral in June 2022.
Is Major Johnny married with children?
Major Johnny Thompson was recently spotted with public relations executive Olivia Lewis, who he met while working for the King and Queen.
They have been seeing each other for over a year and are said to be “well matched and very happy”.
Olivia’s uncle is former Daily Telegraph editor Sir Will Lewis, who is now editor and chief executive of the Washington Post.
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Major Thompson was previously married to marketing manager Caroline, whom he married in 2010 and has one son with.
They separated in 2022.
How long does a squire serve?
A squire is a key role in the royal household.
The person holding the role usually assumes it for three years.
The position generally includes assisting Her Majesty in her public duties and being her “eyes and ears”.
Why does Johnny Thompson wear a kilt?
Members of the Royal Regiment of Scotland wear a specific type of kilt as part of their uniform.
Major Thompson can always be seen wearing a thick checkered kilt and a large fur spur during royal service.
He can also be seen wearing a Lowland Glengarry pattern, a type of cap.
Since stepping away from high-level duties, Major Thompson has not been seen wearing his formal uniform.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
