The address traditionally gives the monarch a chance to look back on the highs and lows of the past year while sharing reflections with viewers watching from home.
This year’s broadcast marked Charles’ fourth Christmas message as king. The tradition itself dates back to 1932, when it was introduced by King George V. Queen Elizabeth II later brought the speech to television in 1957 and went on to deliver 69 Christmas addresses during her historic reign.
Filming the Speech: A Break From Convention
Since 1960, royal Christmas speeches have been pre-recorded so they can be distributed across the Commonwealth and aired at the most suitable local times.
In 2024, King Charles departed from tradition by recording his message outside a royal residence for the first time since 2006, choosing Fitzrovia Chapel in Pearson Square, London, the former chapel of Middlesex Hospital.
This year, the 10-minute address was filmed at the Lady Chapel within Westminster Abbey, another notable shift from the palace settings favoured by his late mother.
