Duchess Camilla steps out in Meghan Markle’s former role for latest engagement as fans dub her the ‘perfect choice’

Duchess Camilla took on Meghan Markle’s former role a few months ago and fans believe there couldn't be anyone 'more fitting' for it...

Duchess Camilla took on Meghan Markle's former role as Patron of the National Theatre, seen here visiting for the first time
(Image credit: Photo by Frank Augstein-WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Duchess Camilla took on Meghan Markle’s former role earlier this year and fans were delighted to see her pay an important visit for the very first time.


As one of the most senior members of the extended Royal Family and the future Queen Consort, it’s perhaps no surprise that the Duchess of Cornwall has an extensive list of royal patronages. From Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to the National Literacy Trust, she’s shown her support and dedication as Patron to so many organizations and charities over the years. In 2022 she received another special role and Duchess Camilla was “all the more delighted” to take on the Patronage of the National Theater after reportedly dreaming of it for years. 

This prestigious position belonged to the Queen before it was announced in 2019 that Meghan Markle would succeed her as Patron. Now Duchess Camilla has undertaken her first visit to the historic theater since she took on this new role.

Taking to social media, Clarence House shared a series of sweet snaps and a short video clip all taken during Duchess Camilla’s National Theater engagement. Her joy was evident and the future Queen was pictured beaming as she was shown everything from costumes to wigs and even a special workshop. 

“Since 1963, the National Theater has shared unforgettable stories with audiences across the world, empowering artists and craftspeople, investing in talent, and developing new productions with a range of theater companies,” the caption explained. 

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visits the National Theatre on April 27, 2022

(Image credit: Photo by Frank Augstein-WPA Pool/Getty Images)

It continued, “🎭 The Duchess visited the theater today for the first time since becoming its Royal Patron. The @NationalTheatre’s ‘Public Acts’ initiative creates extraordinary acts of theater and community. 

“The program creates ambitious new works, built on sustained partnerships with theaters and community organizations who share the vision of theater as a force for change.” 

This important visit comes just a month after Duchess Camilla took on Meghan Markle’s former patronage officially. Since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle “stepped back” as working royals they’ve lost their royal patronages, with some still to be redistributed amongst other members of the Royal Family. 

But the decision for the Duchess of Cornwall to become National Theater Patron is one that seems to have been welcomed with open arms by fans.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex during a visit to The National Theatre on January 30, 2019 in London, England

(Image credit: Photo by Jon Bond - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

“She is the perfect choice for this rôle 👏🏼💕”, one person declared in support. 

Another agreed, writing, “Camilla will be a great patron to The National Theatre, she always works hard for all her patronage’s I’m sure the NT will be delighted to have her🥰👏”.

“HRH is quite obviously so interested and clearly enjoys herself during the visit! She looks amazing! I could not imagine anyone more fitting for this role than her ❤❤❤”, someone else responded. 

A fourth fan added,"❤️Love the Duchess of Cornwall. She will be a great patron."

So it seems fans are more than a little excited that Duchess Camilla took on Meghan Markle’s former role. And as a lover of theater and literature, the Duchess of Cornwall certainly looked right at home during her first visit as National Theater Patron. 

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!