Oscar-winning national treasure Dame Helen Mirren has launched a stunning broadside against the modern 'selfie culture' she witnessed at Windsor Castle, branding the behaviour of some visitors as profoundly disrespectful.
The revered actress, who famously portrayed Queen Elizabeth II on screen, expressed her dismay during a recent appearance on BBC Radio 2 alongside presenter Zoe Ball. The conversation took a serious turn when the topic of the late monarch's final resting place arose.
'It's Idiotic': A Scathing Indictment of Modern Tourism
Dame Helen did not mince her words, stating the conduct of certain tourists was 'so inappropriate' and 'idiotic'. Her comments highlight a growing tension between the desire to document every moment and the need for solemn respect in a place of worship and burial.
'It's a chapel, for a moment, just be in the chapel,' she implored, suggesting visitors put their phones away to experience the gravity and history of the location.
A Plea for Respect at the Queen's Resting Place
The actress's critique carries significant weight, given her deep connection to the subject matter. Her iconic portrayal of Her Majesty in The Queen earned her an Academy Award, granting her a unique perspective on the institution and the decorum it commands.
St George's Chapel within the Windsor Castle grounds is not just a tourist attraction; it is the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II, her parents, and her sister, Princess Margaret. For many, it is a site of pilgrimage and mourning, a fact Dame Helen believes should override the impulse for a social media post.
Her powerful plea serves as a reminder of the importance of context and respect when visiting historic and sacred sites, urging a return to quiet contemplation over digital validation.
