In true royal fashion — and we’re talking old-school royal — King Charles is reportedly keeping up one of the most bizarre Christmas traditions ever: forcing family members to weigh themselves before and after their massive holiday feast at Sandringham.
The custom, which dates back over a century to King Edward VII, was meant to make sure everyone “ate enough.” But in 2025, it’s feeling less jolly and more… judgmental.
“It’s supposed to be lighthearted,” one palace insider said, “but let’s be honest — not everyone loves stepping on antique scales in front of the King.”
Sources tell us Charles, 77, will host the family at Sandringham again this year — scales and all — even as critics slam the ritual as outdated and humiliating. One aide admitted “some family members find it awkward and even cruel,” but said it’s still considered “symbolic.”
That’s awkward timing, considering both the King and Princess Kate are facing ongoing health battles. “Doing weigh-ins when two senior royals are in recovery is just tone-deaf,” another source said.
Prince William and Princess Kate are expected to attend with George, Charlotte, and Louis — and yes, the kids will likely dodge the scales. The family will spend Christmas Eve exchanging gifts, attend the St. Mary Magdalene Church service in the morning, then gather for lunch before the King’s 3 p.m. broadcast.
But don’t expect any California cameos. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are spending the holidays with Archie and Lilibet at their Montecito mansion. Meanwhile, Princess Beatrice is reportedly skipping Sandringham altogether for a ski getaway, while Eugenie may also bow out amid continued fallout over her parents’ scandals.
From the formal lunches to multiple outfit changes, Sandringham Christmas isn’t exactly a cozy family get-together. Every moment — from the walk to church to the carving of the turkey — is scheduled down to the minute.
“It’s a minefield of royal protocols,” one source told us. “Even what you wear for breakfast is decided in advance.”
So yes — as the world keeps moving forward, the royals are still keeping one foot on the scale… literally.
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