King Charles jokes about aging with Elton John in birthday podcast appearance

"Happy Birthday to His Majesty!"

King Charles III celebrated his 78th birthday with an appearance on Elton John's Apple Music radio show, "Rocket Hour," where the two joked about aging and reflected on their decades-long friendship.

The king, who turned 78 on Saturday, joined the legendary musician for a prerecorded episode celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust, the charity Charles founded in 1976 to support young people.

During the episode, Charles reflected on John's performance of his hit song "I'm Still Standing" at a 1986 concert marking the charity's 10th anniversary.

"I know people in all kinds of circumstances find this song inspiring, not only for its marvellous spirit, but also its message of resilience," Charles said. "And certainly 40 years on from that remarkable concert, we and the Trust are definitely still standing."

John responded with a joke, saying, "I'm still sitting now, though."

The exchange prompted laughter from Charles, who continued the lighthearted conversation about aging.

"With occasional bits dropping off here and there," the king said. "I know this is a terrible problem as we get older."

The conversation comes as both men have faced health challenges in recent years. Charles has been receiving treatment for cancer, while John has spoken publicly about problems with his eyesight.

Charles described the opportunity to join John's radio program as "an opportunity too good to resist."

The Royal Family's official Instagram account also marked the occasion with a birthday message and a promotion for the special episode.

"Happy Birthday to His Majesty The King!" the post read, encouraging followers to tune in to John's show on Apple Music.

John joined in the birthday wishes, commenting, "Happy Birthday to His Majesty!"