21 May 2026 , 20:59
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Radio Caroline’s regular broadcasting was interrupted in the middle of the song What’s Up? by the band 4 Non Blondes on Tuesday when the blunder was made.
The announcement said: ‘This is Radio Caroline. We have suspended our normal programmes until further notice as a mark of respect following the passing of His Majesty King Charles III.
‘This is Radio Caroline. His Majesty King Charles III has passed away. As a mark of respect, we will now be playing suitable continuous music until further notice.’
The radio station went on to say the ‘news media’ had confirmed the king’s death before broadcasting a rendition of God Save The King.
Radio Caroline later apologized as the king is, in fact, alive and well.
In a statement posted to Facebook, station manager Peter Moore said the bulletin was accidentally aired due to a ‘computer error’.
The statement read: ‘The Death of a Monarch procedure, which all UK stations hold in readiness while hoping not to require, was accidentally activated on Tuesday afternoon (19 May), mistakenly announcing that HM the King had passed away.
‘Radio Caroline then fell silent as would be required, which alerted us to restore programming and issue an on-air apology.
‘Caroline has been pleased to broadcast Her Majesty the Queen’s, and now the King’s, Christmas message and we hope to do so for many years to come.
‘We apologize to HM the King and to our listeners for any distress caused.’
Deputy Editor