The fictional Gondor -did- have a king, however the king of Gondor did not 'abandon' the throne, as mentioned in the footnote quoted. Isildur & 3 of his sons were killed as part of the war fought against Sauron. The Steward had been left in place in Minith Tirith to govern in the king's stead until his return - so even the context of the footnote was wrong.

That said, 'held manhood' -does- lend itself to giggles.