King Charles III reportedly encountered obstacles while attempting to check on the health of Sir Ranulph Fiennes, the renowned adventurer and his longtime friend. Concerns about Sir Ranulph’s wellbeing and apparent isolation have prompted efforts by the King to establish contact, sources indicate.

The situation came to light following a letter sent in February last year by fellow explorer Anton Bowring to the King’s principal private secretary, Sir Clive Alderton. In the letter, Bowring expressed serious concerns about Sir Ranulph’s deteriorating condition, describing him as being “in a very poor state” and under the care of his wife, Louise Millington-Cotes. Sir Ranulph, who is 82, has not appeared in public for approximately two years.

According to reports, the King’s then-equerry, Commander William Thornton, responded by indicating that the King wished to write to Sir Ranulph, his wife Louise Millington-Cotes, and their daughter Elizabeth to offer assistance. Thornton also sought Ms. Millington-Cotes’s telephone number to facilitate direct communication. However, Ms. Millington-Cotes allegedly blocked the King’s outreach, reacting with anger when her contact details were inadvertently shared with Bowring.

The circumstances have elicited concern from Sir Ranulph’s circle of friends, which includes notable figures such as Bear Grylls, Ben Fogle, Dame Joanna Lumley, John Simpson, and Monty Don. Some have called for formal inquiries into Sir Ranulph’s welfare, suggesting involvement by law enforcement and the Office of the Public Guardian. At present, Sir Ranulph’s exact location remains unknown, intensifying the apprehension surrounding his condition.

Neither Buckingham Palace nor Ms. Millington-Cotes has publicly commented on the reports. The situation continues to attract public and media attention as questions persist about the adventurer’s wellbeing and the barriers preventing contact with his longtime friend, the King.