In a surprising yet exciting collaboration, King Charles has teamed up with the acclaimed actress Cate Blanchett for a special podcast episode that is now available for public listening. This partnership, which was kept under wraps until recently, marks an extraordinary moment in the royal family’s ongoing engagement with contemporary issues. Announced on the official royal family social media pages on October 20, the podcast features an insightful conversation between the King, Cate, and Dr. Elinor Breman, Senior Research Leader at Kew Gardens, discussing one of the most significant conservation projects in the world.
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King Charles and Cate Blanchett at Windsor Castle
The episode was recorded in the serene surroundings of Windsor Castle’s private gardens, with a focus on the 25th anniversary of the Millennium Seed Bank, a global conservation initiative that safeguards over 2.5 billion seeds from extinction. The Millennium Seed Bank, based at Kew Gardens, plays a critical role in preserving the biodiversity of wild plant species, ensuring that they are protected from environmental threats, climate change, and extinction. Launched in 2000, it has since become the world’s largest underground seed bank, a vital resource for future generations of plant life.
The podcast, which is part of Kew’s fourth “Unearthed” series, is hosted by Cate Blanchett, who is an Ambassador for Kew’s Wakehurst site. The series aims to celebrate the incredible work done by the Millennium Seed Bank, delving into the past, present, and future of the project, and exploring the importance of seed preservation. For King Charles, this is not just a ceremonial visit; he has been deeply involved with Kew Gardens for many years, having opened the Millennium Seed Bank himself in 2000 and later returning for a visit in 2019. As the Patron of Kew Gardens since 2016, King Charles has consistently used his position to advocate for sustainability, a cause he is immensely passionate about.
Royal fans were quick to express their enthusiasm following the announcement, with many praising the King for his continued dedication to environmental conservation. One fan commented on the royal social media page: “Brilliant and so important,” while another wrote: “Our King has always been ahead of the times. It’s good to see now he’s included in things today he’s been talking about for years. Remarkable man.” These comments reflect the admiration the public has for King Charles’s long-standing commitment to preserving the natural world.
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King Charles taking part in the podcast at Windsor Castle in July, 2025.
The podcast, titled Unearthed: The Need for Seeds, is now available on all major podcast platforms, offering listeners an in-depth look at the vital work being done to protect the world’s plant species. It is a perfect example of how the monarchy is finding new ways to engage with modern audiences, combining royal duties with meaningful, global causes. Through this unique collaboration with Cate Blanchett, the King not only continues his advocacy for sustainability but also embraces contemporary forms of communication, such as podcasts, which resonate with younger generations.
This podcast episode is a testament to King Charles’s enduring influence in both royal circles and the world of environmental activism. His partnership with Cate Blanchett, a respected voice in the arts and advocacy, brings an exciting new dimension to the royal family’s efforts to raise awareness about crucial global issues. As both a monarch and a passionate environmentalist, King Charles’s engagement in projects like the Millennium Seed Bank serves as an inspiring example of how the royal family can make a tangible impact on the world stage.
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King Charles taking part in the podcast in July 2025.
Unearthed: The Need for Seeds is now available for streaming on all podcast platforms, offering listeners an opportunity to learn about the groundbreaking work being done to preserve biodiversity and plant life for future generations. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and environmental preservation, this podcast serves as a timely reminder of the importance of collective action in the fight to protect our planet.
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Cate Blanchett, Dr. Elinor Breman and King Charles around the table at Windsor
So, what do you think of this royal podcast collaboration? Are you excited to hear more from King Charles on this vital topic? Join the conversation by leaving your thoughts on our Facebook page @RoyalInsider. We’d love to hear what you think!
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