Prince Charles praises wife Camilla Parker Bowles

ABERDEENSHIRE, Scotland, March 12 (UPI) -- Prince Charles thinks wife Camilla Parker Bowles is brilliant.

The 66-year-old Duke of Cornwall recently opened up about the 67-year-old Duchess of Cornwall in an interview with CNN. Prince Charles and Parker Bowles will celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary in April, and the royal praised his wife in a rare moment of public affection.

"It's always nice to have somebody on your side," he related. "She is an enormous support, and sees the funny side of life, thank God."

"It's always marvelous to have somebody who, you know, you feel understands and wants to encourage," he continued. "Although she certainly pokes fun if I get too serious about things. And all that helps."

Prince Charles and Parker Bowles interviewed in part to promote positive perception of the duchess. Many initially disliked Parker Bowles for her perceived role in the duke's divorce from the late Princess Diana, and Prince Charles admitted public opinion has been "a real, real challenge."

CNN Spotlight: Charles and Camilla will air Saturday at 1:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. ET. The broadcast will also promote the couple's charity work, and is scheduled three days before the royals arrive in the United States for a four-day visit.