Queen Camilla, Tom Parker Bowles

Queen Camilla’s son, renowned food writer Tom Parker Bowles, has delivered a hilarious yet pointed quip about the idea of receiving a royal title, claiming it could spark public outrage severe enough to “storm” Buckingham Palace gates. The 51-year-old made the tongue-in-cheek remark during a recent appearance on the Good Food podcast with host Samuel Goldsmith, reigniting discussions about titles within the modern monarchy as of early January 2026.

When Goldsmith playfully suggested that if his own mother became queen, he’d demand to be made a prince, Parker Bowles responded with mock horror: “I’d tell you that would be the quickest way to revolution.” He elaborated, “I think we’re a fairly balanced and sober and sensible country on the whole, but if I suddenly became prince, I think Buckingham Palace gates would be stormed. It would be appalling.” Laughing off the notion, he added that such a move would “put back the long and glorious cause of the monarchy in Britain by many years,” before joking about preferring a Netflix deal instead.

Tom, the eldest child of Queen Camilla and her first husband Andrew Parker Bowles, shares a sister, Laura Lopes, 47. The siblings became stepchildren to King Charles upon his 2005 marriage to Camilla, making them stepsiblings to Princes William and Harry. Unlike the direct line of succession, Tom and Laura have always maintained private lives away from full royal duties, with Tom carving a successful career as a critic, author—of books like “Cooking and The Crown”—and occasional TV personality.

This lighthearted comment reflects broader royal dynamics under King Charles, who has emphasized a slimmed-down monarchy. No plans exist to elevate Camilla’s children with titles, mirroring decisions for other step-relatives. Tom has previously praised his mother as resilient and his stepfather as knowledgeable, while appreciating the family’s blended warmth without seeking the spotlight—or crowns.

The quip, resurfacing in media amid 2026’s fresh start, amused fans who admire Tom’s down-to-earth vibe. It underscores public sensitivity to royal expansions, especially post controversies involving extended family members. As the monarchy navigates modernity, Tom’s humor highlights contentment with his non-titled status, preserving tradition while embracing normalcy. His words, delivered with characteristic wit, remind that some privileges are best left untouched.