The Name’s Elizabeth, Queen Elizabeth

The Opening Ceremony of London 2012 Olympic Games was a spectacular affair certain to be remembered for years to come. From poignant tributes to Armed Forces, to British humour at its best, the ceremony was lauded all over the world. Arguably the most memorable event was, however, Queen Elizabeth’s acting début as a “Bond Girl”.

As the film began, many expected the Queen to be portrayed by a double, yet when Agent 007 entered the Buckingham Palace, he was greeted – to the surprise and delight of everyone – by the very real and authentic Queen Elizabeth (and her two adorable corgis).

Escorted by James Bond (played by Daniel Craig), the Queen then took a helicopter ride over a cheering London. And when an identical helicopter showed over the stadium it suggested, as BBC put it, a Royal arrival unlike any other.

The best bit came shortly afterwards, when 86-year-old Monarch was shown apparently leaping out from the helicopter with a Union Jack parachute, to loud cheers and gasps of onlookers. Moments later, Her Majesty appeared in the stadium wearing exactly the same outfit as for the short film. Of course, the parachute jump was performed by a stunt double – which didn’t take anything from the sheer brilliancy of the idea at all.

That particular segment of the opening ceremony was quite unforgettable and in the worlds of a Scottish soldier serving at the Olympics: “The queen was the star of the show – she was bloody wonderful. She was the best bit. I think it shows the people another side to her. I think the people love her but since the Jubilee and after this a lot of people see just what a wonderful queen she is.”

A wonderful display of sense of humour, Ma’am. And one that was appreciated all over the world. If I may add, it was a thoroughly enjoyable opening ceremony that, for me personally, will be remembered as one of the greatest ever: British history, traditions, quirkiness, humour and self-depreciation at its best.

Filed under The United Kingdom
Tagged Celebrities, Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, London 2012, Olympic Games.

4 Responses to The Name’s Elizabeth, Queen Elizabeth