Writer and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth has revealed that the late Queen Elizabeth II harboured a childhood ambition to become an impressionist. Speaking on the first episode of season two of HELLO!'s A Right Royal Podcast, Brandreth recalled how the Queen, as a teenager during World War II, developed a talent for impersonations.
During the war, the royal family were entertained at Windsor Castle by performers such as comedian George Formby and female impersonator Florence Desmond. Brandreth said the then-Princess Elizabeth admired Desmond and thought, 'Ooh this is what I'd like to be. I'd like to be an impressionist.'
The Queen told Brandreth she could still imitate Formby, picking up an imaginary ukulele and singing 'When I'm Cleaning Windows' in a Lancashire accent. She also performed regional accents from across the UK, as well as impressions of animals and even the sound of Concorde landing over Windsor Castle.
In the same podcast episode, official photographer Julian Calder discussed discovering a sex book on the Duke of Edinburgh's bookshelves during a photoshoot. HELLO!'s royal editor Emily Nash also reflected on the past royal year and the future of King Charles's reign.
