King Charles III’s coronation is finally upon us and — like all major royal events that captivate Americans despite our, uh, complicated history with the British monarchy — we’re ready for another installment of The Crown (But Make it IRL).
MORE: Why is Camilla being crowned queen? King Charles’ wife’s role at the coronation, explained
It’s been 70 years since the world last witnessed a British monarch’s coronation, so here we are to answer some of the most pressing questions about the event, from what the schedule is to guest list to how you can watch it at home.
Let’s get to it.
What time does it start?
The coronation is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. in England, meaning a bright and early start time in the United States for any hopeful viewers. It will kick off at 6 a.m. on the East Coast, with a 3 a.m. start for those out on Pacific Time (with hours of pregame coverage anglophiles won’t want to miss).
How can I watch?
There are multiple ways to watch the coronation here in the United States. BBC will be live-streaming the event, and ABC, NBC, CNN, MSNBC and FOX will have live broadcasts. Michael Strahan is holding things down for ABC’s coverage, while Anderson Cooper will serve as coronation guide over on CNN. Savannah Guthrie is anchoring coverage for NBC.
All of those channels will also offer live streams on their respective sites.
I'm sorry, did you say Michael Strahan?
Yes! Former NFL superstar Michael Strahan will host ABC’s coverage. He is already in London looking dapper for the event.
Good Morning America from London! #coronation pic.twitter.com/zbaSz1CfWP
— Michael Strahan (@michaelstrahan) May 5, 2023
Who is going to be there?
There are about 2,000 expected guests for the coronation, including working members of the Royal Family. Prince William and Kate Middleton will be in attendance, as will Prince Harry. Meghan Markle will remain in the United States, likely celebrating her son Archie’s birthday, which happens to be on the same day.
Other guests include First Lady Jill Biden, David and Victoria Beckham, actor Rowan Atkinson and survivalist Bear Grylls.
What even happens at a coronation?
The coronation is made up of six parts: The recognition, the oath, the anointing, the investiture and the crowning, the enthroning and the homage. Everything is laid out and there’s a large script — or liturgy — to follow.
