King Charles’ Instagram-famous senior equerry to leave royal family role after quitting Army

The senior equerry to the King and Queen, who captured widespread attention online, is to step down from his role supporting the royal family.

Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Thompson, a popular figure among admirers who created an Instagram fan page dedicated to him, will depart his position at the end of the year following seven years in the royal household.

The equerry serves in the Royal Regiment of Scotland and is also leaving the armed forces to pursue a new career in the private sector, after spending more than 20 years as a soldier.

A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace stated: “Their Majesties were of course aware of this plan in advance and I know they are most grateful to Jonny for his support over the past seven years and wish him all the best for the future.”

Lt Col Thompson featured in the King and Queen’s official party during their state visit to the United States in April, where he became notably popular.

Lifestyle authority Martha Stewart posted praise and a picture featuring the equerry once the state tour concluded, writing on her Instagram account: “Can’t believe I got this close to the ‘hot equerry’…”

She appeared to have met the officer during a New York event celebrating the work of the King’s Trust and showcasing the UK’s cultural impact on the city.

The businesswoman added: “We actually spoke while waiting for King Charles to get to us for a few words. Totally charming, completely cool. Exceedingly handsome.”

The senior equerry was commissioned into the Royal Regiment of Scotland in April 2006 and served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan before commanding Balaklava Company, the regiment’s 5th battalion, based in Edinburgh.

While in command, he led the ceremonial and military support for the late Queen’s annual residence at Balmoral in 2018 and the following year, and in December 2019 was appointed equerry to Charles and Camilla.

He became the King’s equerry on Charles’s accession to the throne in September 2022 and two years later was promoted to the role of senior equerry to the King and Queen.