Prince William’s emotional tribute to ‘Pa’ King Charles: ‘So proud’

The Prince of Wales’ deeply personal tribute to his “Pa” at the coronation concert appeared to leave Charles fighting to contain his emotions.

Prince William has delivered a heartfelt speech about his father at today’s coronation concert, prompting a rare moment of emotion from King Charles.

The King lowered his head with a smile as his son spoke of the late Queen Elizabeth II and how proud she’d be of the work her son is doing.

“As my grandmother said, coronations are a declaration of our hopes for the future, and I know she’s up there fondly keeping an eye on us and is a very proud mother,” he said.

William also gave a rare insight into their private relationship, addressing his father by the personal nickname he uses for him.

“Pa, we are all so proud of you,” William said.

William's heartwarming speech appeared to make Charles emotional. Picture: BBC

Charles glanced down during the touching moment. Picture: BBC

He also praised his father’s sense of duty to his people.

“For all that celebrations are magnificent, at the heart of pageantry is a simple message: Service,” William told the crowd.

“My father’s first words at Westminster Abbey yesterday were a pledge of service. A pledge to continue to serve. Because for over 50 years, in every corner of the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world, he has dedicated himself to serve others.”

Earlier in his speech, William made a cheeky gag, riffing off the title of the most popular song by one of this evening’s performers, Lionel Richie.

“I want to say a few words about my father and why this weekend is so important. But don’t worry – unlike Lionel, I won’t go on all night long,” he joked, sparking a roar of laughter.

The royals took in the show from the royal box alongside other dignitaries. Picture: Yui Mok - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

William was just one of the features of the star-studded concert, which also had included performances by US stars Katy Perry and Lionel Richie, along with British pop group Take That and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli.

William kissed Charles’ cheek during the coronation. Picture: Yui Mok - WPA Pool/Getty Images

The Prince of Wales’ candid speech came off the back of the sweet father and son moment during the coronation, in which the King appeared emotional as his eldest son paid homage and tenderly kissed his cheek.

Marking a break with tradition, William was the only blood prince to swear loyalty to the King during the ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

The moment unfolded after the Archbishop of Canterbury placed St Edward’s Crown on Charles’ head, with William then kneeling to give the oath of allegiance.

“I, William, Prince of Wales, pledge my loyalty to you and faith and truth I will bear unto you, as your liegeman of life and limb. So help me God,” he said, before touching his father’s crown and kissing him on the cheek.