Documentary reveals King Charles fooled by forged paintings

A new documentary explores how King Charles was misled by fake paintings. The film, titled "The Royal Stunt," looks into a scandal involving art forger Tony Tetro and British socialite James Stunt. It reveals how Stunt lent several forged artworks, including pieces attributed to famous artists like Monet and Picasso, to a royal residence. In a letter from 2017, then-Prince Charles expressed gratitude for Stunt’s loan of 17 paintings to Dumfries House. The letter praised the artworks and reflected Charles's excitement. However, many of these paintings turned out to be forgeries created by Tetro, who believed they were only for Stunt's personal collection. The documentary features interviews with Tetro, who is now looking to retire, and showcases Stunt's controversial past. He made headlines for his lavish lifestyle and admissions of drug use. The film also highlights how journalists worked with the filmmakers to uncover the truth behind the fake artworks. The Prince's Foundation called the situation "extremely regrettable" and confirmed that the counterfeit paintings had been returned. However, three of Tetro's works remain unaccounted for, as Stunt denies having them. The documentary raises questions about how King Charles and his team were so easily deceived, noting that the royal family's art collection is already vast. The current whereabouts of the fake paintings are unknown, and both Stunt and former art director Malcolm Rogers have refused interview requests. Producer Giampiero Ambrosi found the investigation to be filled with unexpected developments, emphasizing the complicity and ignorance of people involved in the scandal. "The Royal Stunt" is currently seeking distribution partners.