Donald Trump and King Charles III shared a surprisingly relaxed exchange following a high-profile state dinner in Washington, D.C. According to a professional lip reader, the President of the United States appeared to jokingly ask the King, “Are you drunk?” This was after the monarch delivered a speech full of jokes that had guests laughing throughout the evening.
Donald Trump shared ‘relaxed and informal’ moment with King Charles after speech, per expert
The 77-year-old monarch took a notably warm and witty tone during his address to connect with the room while navigating to strengthen UK–US relations. He drew laughs with a playful nod to cultural differences, joking about Americans calling the sport “soccer” while the UK insists on “football.” This was in reference to the upcoming World Cup set to take place in the United States.
After they raised their glasses, King Charles seemed to ask Donald Trump, “Where’s your drink?” Lip reader Nicola Hickling, speaking to media outlets, described the interaction between the two leaders as notably relaxed compared to the formal tone expected at such events.
According to her interpretation, Trump congratulated the King on his speech, telling him “great job,” before making the joking remark that sparked headlines. He seems to joke, “Are you drunk?”
Charles, she suggests, responded in equally good spirits. He praised the hospitality of the visit and the success of the day’s events. “Absolutely. The hospitality of your state visit has been truly outstanding. You did wonderfully today,” the monarch appears to say.
Hickling explains that this moment feels more “relaxed and informal.” She says Charles seems playful, using humor to keep things light. Meanwhile, Trump accepts the praise and goes along with the mood. The gesture of placing a hand on Charles’s shoulder shows a sense of familiarity and friendliness. Overall, she says the interaction shifts from “formal diplomacy” to a more casual, “social dynamic” in front of others.
