Executive Summary
The Story So Far
Why This Matters
Who Thinks What?
President Donald Trump concluded his state visit to the United Kingdom with a lavish state dinner at Windsor Castle on Wednesday night, where a notable guest was Rupert Murdoch, the media mogul whom Trump is currently suing for $20 billion. The intimate gathering, co-hosted by King Charles III, brought together a select group of political figures, business leaders, and royal family members amidst ongoing legal and diplomatic intricacies.
The Murdoch Lawsuit
Murdoch, a regular attendee at past state dinners, is embroiled in a significant legal dispute with Trump. The lawsuit stems from a Wall Street Journal report concerning a suggestive birthday letter reportedly bearing Trump’s name, sent to Jeffrey Epstein. Trump has vehemently denied the signature is his, stating he warned Murdoch against publishing the report before the newspaper proceeded anyway, leading to the substantial lawsuit.
Guest List and Seating Arrangements
Despite the legal battle, Rupert Murdoch and his fifth wife, Elena, were confirmed attendees at the dinner, which included approximately 160 guests. The guest list was a joint effort between the Royal Family and the White House. Seating arrangements, determined by the Royal Family, placed President Trump between King Charles III and Catherine, Princess of Wales, while First Lady Melania Trump was seated opposite, next to Queen Camilla and William, Prince of Wales.
Among those notably absent was Peter Mandelson, the recently ousted British ambassador to the US, who was fired days prior to the visit following revelations of his extensive ties to Epstein. The US ambassador to the Court of St. James, Warren Stephens, was present. Other high-profile attendees included several prominent CEOs such as OpenAI’s Sam Altman, Nvidia’s Jensen Huang, and BlackRock’s Larry Fink, alongside White House officials and British dignitaries.
Reflecting the UK’s pursuit of a favorable trade standing with the US, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent held a significant seat next to Queen Camilla. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his wife also attended the diplomatic event.
A Royal Culinary Experience
The dinner itself was a meticulously planned affair, with over 100 staff serving guests at a long, ornate table adorned with vibrant flower arrangements and approximately 130 candles. Each place setting was elaborate, featuring three forks, three knives, a spoon, and five drinking glasses, complemented by a perfectly folded napkin.
The menu showcased a blend of seasonal British produce and royal culinary expertise. It began with a panna cotta de cresson starter, accompanied by parmesan shortbread and a quail egg salad. The main course was an organic Norfolk chicken ballotine, wrapped in courgettes with a thyme and savory-infused jus. Dessert offered a vanilla ice cream bombe with a Kentish raspberry sorbet interior, served alongside lightly poached Victoria plums.
Behind the Menu
Royal chef Mark Flanagan, assistant to the master for catering, explained that the menus prioritize the best seasonal ingredients. The curation involved collaboration with the White House chef, though the final design ultimately caters to King Charles III’s “eclectic palate.” Flanagan noted that while the menu respects the visiting country, it does not attempt to replicate their cuisine, instead incorporating subtle nods to their style. The ultimate decisions regarding the banquet menu rest with Their Majesties.
