David Beckham follows in King Charles’ footsteps as he’s announced as guest editor of Country Life magazine after years of reading ‘every issue from cover to cover’

It was only last month that David Beckham charmed the King through his love of gardening.

Now, he’ll keep using his green fingers, as the ex-footballer has been revealed as the newest celebrity taking over the editorship of Country Life Magazine.

A man, recognized as a strong supporter of the monarchy and rumored to receive knighthood on the King’s birthday, has been transitioning from soccer fields to rural landscapes lately.

The unique edition showcases a favorite recipe of Beckham, along with individuals who are admired for their rural contributions, skilled artisans who’ve influenced his Cotswold home, and a peek into how the countryside has grown significantly meaningful in his life.

King Charles, on the occasion of his 65th birthday in November 2013 and his 70th in 2018 while he was still the Prince of Wales, had the honor of being a guest editor for Country Life magazine twice.

In 2020, the Princess Royal organized a special magazine release to celebrate her 70th birthday, while the Queen, who was then the Duchess of Cornwall, took charge as editor in 2022 for her 75th birthday issue. This publication set a new record by selling out completely.

David Beckham expressed gratitude for being given the opportunity to curate an issue of a magazine he’s long respected and enjoyed reading. He’s excited to collaborate with the editorial staff to create a publication showcasing the significance of the countryside and the beautiful British landscape, as seen through his and his family’s eyes.

In the year 2016, David, who is now 50, and Victoria Beckham, aged 51, purchased their impressive £12 million mansion located in the Cotswolds region. Since then, David has found a new passion for tending to bees and cultivating vegetables on the property.

Overflowing with pride for his own creations, Mr. Beckham showcased a homemade jar of honey to the King during their encounter at the British Fashion Council Foundation Impact Day 2023.

In London’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show last month, it was reported that the former England captain had a friendly conversation with King Charles III. Their friendship is said to have strengthened over the past few years due to their mutual passion for gardening.

The 76-year-old ruler expressed congratulations to the ex-England soccer player on his milestone events, inquiring if they had already sent their gift.

Outside the Highgrove charity stand run by the King’s Foundation, where Beckham, now an organization ambassador, met with the monarch. He warmly welcomed the ruler and said, “It’s truly a pleasure to see you again, Your Majesty.

Instead of saying “Astonishingly,” you could use a more casual phrase like “It was surprising when” or “Charles seemed puzzled as he asked if”. Then instead of “appeared to ask”, use “inquired” or “wondered aloud” for a smoother flow. So, it would read:

It was surprising when Charles inquired if he had received the birthday present that he and his wife had sent.

‘You got it, didn’t you?’ he asked.

‘It was incredible,’ beamed Beckham. ‘Thank you, it was very kind.’

Camilla then added: ‘Nice to see you again, glad you got the roses.’

Previously, it became known that the ex-football player will receive a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours List, an honor he has been denied for quite some time.

It has been announced that the ex-Manchester United and England player, who just turned 50, will officially be knighted when the list comes out in a week.

As a devoted admirer, I’ve always held a soft spot for Country Life, a sentiment I didn’t hesitate to share with the esteemed Editor-in-Chief, Mark Hedges, during our initial encounter over two years back. You may recall that I’m none other than Mr. Beckham, who wore England’s jersey 115 times and led the team as captain for a six-year stint before hanging up my boots in 2013.

Mark Hedges reminisced: ‘Right off the bat, David shared with me his deep affection for Country Life magazine. He diligently peruses each issue thoroughly, and it’s proved to be an excellent ally during his personal journey of living in the countryside.’

Over the moon here! Thrilled beyond words that David has consented to take on the role of guest editor for our magazine, and what a fitting honor for my 1,000th issue as Editor!

‘It’s clear that he has a profound affection for nature, an emotion that has deepened since his retirement from professional football. Even though he remains actively engaged as a businessman and advocate for numerous organizations like UNICEF, The King’s Foundation, and co-owner of Inter Miami CF in the U.S. and Salford City Football Club in the U.K., I’m eagerly anticipating the unique content his special edition will offer, given his love for the countryside.’

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2025-06-12 11:03