The incident where expressed visible frustration over a leaking pen occurred on September 13, 2022 , during his visit to Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland. Shortly after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, while signing a visitor's book, the King reacted with the exclamation, "I can’t bear this bloody thing!" after ink got on his hands. Incident Overview
: The King was at the end of a grueling tour of the four nations of the United Kingdom, participating in ceremonies and greeting the public following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. The incident where expressed visible frustration over a
: Queen Camilla remained calm, took the pen from him, and finished the signing herself while the King wiped ink from his fingers. Public and Media Reception : Queen Camilla remained calm, took the pen
The "pen incident" became a viral moment, sparking a mix of reactions: : Many observers felt the outburst was a
: While signing the book at Hillsborough Castle, Charles realized he had written the wrong date. Moments later, the pen he was using leaked.
: Many observers felt the outburst was a relatable sign of human grief and exhaustion. At 73 years old, Charles had been under immense public pressure and personal mourning for several days without rest.
This was actually the second "pen-related" issue of his first week as monarch. Days earlier, during his on September 10, he had gestured somewhat impatiently for an aide to move a pen tray that was cluttering the table where he was to sign the Proclamation. Together, these moments provided an early, unvarnished look at the new King's temperament during a period of high stress.