Identity of mysterious ‘Grim Reaper’ spotted at King Charles’ Coronation revealed

Who or what was the mysterious Grim Reaper spotted at Westminster Abbey for King Charles’ Coronation?

As more than 20 million viewers tuned in to watch the historic event of King Charles’ Coronation on Saturday May 6th, onlookers clocked a creepy and mysterious cloaked figure holding what appeared to be a ‘scythe’, lurking in the background.

A clip of the moment went viral online as viewers took to social media to joke about what they had just seen.

Many dubbed the mysterious figure the ‘Grim Reaper’ — a mythological creature of death, as a personified force, who collects the souls of people when they die.

Social media users were left asking whether the figure had been someone pulling a prank, knowing the Coronation was being televised, or if it had just been a random passerby.

​​“Anyone else just notice the Grim Reaper at Westminster Abbey?” wrote one person on Twitter, while another added: “Who invited the Grim Reaper?”

A third chimed in: “Couldn’t decide if it was Death or maybe Darth Vader.” And a fourth joked: “For whom does he come?”

When contacted by Newsweek, Westminster Abbey identified the figure as a verger, a member of the abbey community who assists with religious services but who is not a member of the clergy.

A verger is sometimes seen carrying a rod before a bishop or dean as a symbol of office. They act as a caretaker and attendant.

Other viral moments from the landmark day included; Katy Perry looking around while she tried to locate her seat. The ‘Firework’ singer posted online: “Don’t worry, I found my seat.”

And Princess Anne’s magnificent hat, which obstructed Prince Harry’s view. Harry flew over to attend the event and left shortly afterwards to get back to the States to be with Meghan and their children for his son Archie’s birthday.