King Charles‘ mysterious bodyguard has stepped down after years of service, it has been revealed. The security chief, whom the Palace does not name in public, completed his final duty during the King and Queen‘s state visit to the United States earlier this week.

He provided close protection for the monarch during the historic visit, which was marked by heavy security following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on 25 April.

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According to The Times, the US tour, which took place from 27 to 30 April 2026, is set to be his last tour with Charles and Camilla before entering retirement, but the royal couple is understood to have asked him to continue to work with the royal household in the future.

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The bodyguard has become somewhat of an internet sensation, not least because of his distinguished beard. Online fans have previously compared him to the ‘Kingsman’ for his dapper facial hair and large umbrella, which has been nicknamed a “gunbrella”.

Dubbed the ‘Hot Equerry’ online, Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson was first the late Queen’s most senior bodyguard before being promoted to Super Equerry to King Charles. He is from the Royal Regiment of Scotland and, according to Tatler, the ‘super’ in his job title means that Johnny’s tenure is not limited to the traditional three years.

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He was also present during the US tour, including joining Charles at the British Embassy garden party in Washington, DC.

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Generally speaking, equerries are responsible for the planning and execution of a royal’s daily programmes. A military background makes the likes of Johnny Thompson perfect for ensuring the King’s public engagements run like clockwork.