Queen Elizabeth II was adored universally and respected for her calm, dutiful approach to the role she held for more than seven decades. She was widely seen as composed and unflappable, even during moments of pressure or public scrutiny.
However, beneath the grace and formality, the Queen had a dynamic and on a small number of occasions, this was more apparent.
Particularly when long-standing royal etiquette or simple courtesy was ignored.
As a result, several of those moments are resurfacing once again, offering a reminder that the late monarch was not afraid to make her feelings known when boundaries were crossed.
Queen Elizabeth II was a stickler for this royal rule
In the 2002 documentary about her life, The Queen: A Remarkable Life, directed by Alan Scales, the late Queen was seen watching her husband, Prince Philip, take part in carriage driving.
In the footage, the Queen can be heard addressing photographers who had gathered too closely as she watched.
She asked simply: “Do you mind?”
While her response was subtle, it was clear she was unimpressed. The photographers appeared to have broken a basic rule of royal etiquette.
Traditionally, etiquette suggests walking slightly behind or alongside the monarch, as they are the highest-ranking person present. Turning one’s back to the Queen has long been viewed as discourteous.
The ‘unspoken’ rule break that drew an unimpressed reaction from Queen Elizabeth
That said, the royal family’s official website has previously clarified that there are “no obligatory codes of behaviour”.
Instead, it states that “just courtesy” is expected.
Another notable moment came in 2007 during a photoshoot with celebrated photographer Annie Leibovitz. The session was filmed as part of a BBC documentary titled A Year With The Queen.
During the shoot, the footage captured a moment when the Queen appeared visibly displeased.
Annie Leibovitz was heard asking whether the Queen might remove her crown, suggesting it would improve the photograph.
Famous footage of the Queen reacting to Annie Leibovitz
“Less dressy? What do you think this is?” the Queen replied.
She then added: “I’m not changing anything. I’ve had enough dressing like this, thank you very much.”
Footage shown in the documentary trailer appeared to show the Queen walking out while wearing a ceremonial robe.
The clip circulated widely and sparked debate about her reaction. However, it was later reported that the footage had been misrepresented and that the trailer was never intended to be seen by the public or press.
As a result, the BBC issued a formal apology.
Queen Elizabeth II’s sense of humour
Although the Queen was known to be a stickler for rules, she also had a sharp and much-loved sense of humour.
That lighter side of her personality surfaced on several occasions throughout her reign and endeared her to the public.
One of her most memorable moments came in 2016 when she appeared alongside Prince Harry to promote the Invictus Games.
The Queen’s ‘mic drop’ moment with Prince Harry
In the video, Michelle Obama said to Harry: “Hey, Prince Harry, remember when you told us to bring it in the Invictus Games?”
Barack Obama followed with: “Be careful what you wish for.”
Behind them, someone in uniform mimed a mic drop and said: “Boom.”
The Queen then turned to Harry and replied dryly: “Oh really, please…”
Harry followed suit by miming his own mic drop and joking: “Boom.”
No matter the circumstances, Queen Elizabeth II always carried herself with authority and quiet confidence. Whether calmly enforcing protocol or delivering a dry, perfectly timed remark, she remained unapologetically herself.
Those moments continue to resonate with the public. They reveal a monarch who balanced discipline with humour and duty with warmth, leaving behind a legacy that still shapes how she is remembered today.
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