Queen Camilla has drawn criticism after asking Gavin and Stacey star Ruth Jones a question many deemed inappropriate during a visit to South Wales for King Charles III’s 77th birthday. The royal couple attended a community reception at Cyfarthfa Castle in Merthyr Tydfil on Friday, November 14, where Welsh celebrities and TV personalities were in attendance, including Ruth, Love Island star Liam Reardon, fashion designer Julien Macdonald, and TikTok creator Lewis Leigh.

Representatives from the King and Queen’s patronages and local businesses, including Coco’s Coffee and Candles and Enaid Wellness, were also present. Guests sang happy birthday to the King before he cut his cake, a replica of Cyfarthfa Castle made with vanilla sponge, jam, and buttercream.

During the reception, Queen Camilla greeted Ruth Jones, who has played the iconic role of Nessa for 17 years. Although the two had met before, the Queen appeared momentarily confused and asked: “Haven’t you lost masses of weight?” while shaking her hand. Ruth responded politely: “Yes, I have, thank you! I’ve lost a bit of weight.”

Jones has openly discussed her lifelong weight journey, having lost 4.5 stone in 22 months. While Ruth seemed unbothered by the comment, social media quickly erupted.

Many users criticized the Queen, calling the question rude and inappropriate. One Instagram commenter wrote: “How rude. Can you imagine our Queen Elizabeth asking such a personal question.” Others expressed shock or frustration, while some defended the exchange, noting that the interaction appeared friendly and light-hearted.

Despite the mixed reactions online, the brief encounter offered a glimpse into the Queen’s personal engagement with guests, even if her remark was received controversially.