Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee celebrations have begun.
Here is a slideshow of all the festivities in honor of the Queen's 70 years on the throne.
It would have been very hard to top the mega explosion of love that followed Her Majesty when she appeared in the spoof a "James Bond" skit with Daniel Craig for the 2012 games, but she did it again — a brilliant opener with the Paddington Bear — a huge favorite with the Queen and Princess Charlotte, which really got the whole party at the palace to a cackling start. Then bang, the brilliant Brian May, Roger Taylor and Adam Lambert shook the ground with an explosive performance.
The royal family were out in force this evening along with tens of thousands of fans at the star-studded Party at the Palace event, but the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were missing.
This concert is the highlight of the third day of public events to mark the 96-year-old monarch's record-breaking Platinum Jubilee with a record 22,000 people attending in person outside Buckingham Palace.
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Queen Elizabeth II made a surprise appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony Sunday after it was widely anticipated she would not participate in the final Platinum Jubilee festivities.
The 96-year-old monarch wore a vibrant green suit as she walked out of the palace and greeted thousands of revelers alongside her immediate royal family as celebrations wrapped up marking her 70 years on the throne.
Elizabeth was joined by Prince Charles and Camilla Parker, the Duchess of Cornwall. Grandson Prince William and wife Kate Middleton joined her majesty, in addition to their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
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{{#rendered}}Ed Sheeran performed his hit song "Perfect" to mark the end of the four-day Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II on Sunday.
The 31-year-old musician, who recently welcomed second daughter with wife Cherry Seaborn, sang his chart-topping hit "Perfect" for Elizabeth and in tribute to the queen's late husband, Prince Philip, as images of the couple flashed behind on a big screen. The Duke of Edinburgh died in April 2021 at the age of 99.
Following his song, he joined in on a rendition of "God Save The Queen" outside the Palace at the end of the pageant, where her majesty made an appearance on the balcony after days of missed events due to mobility issues.
Sheeran previously performed for the queen at her Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012 when Elizabeth celebrated 60 years on the throne.
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A hologram of Queen Elizabeth II made an appearance at the Platinum Jubilee Pageant on Sunday.
The hologram appeared on the windows of the 18th century Gold State Coach, which hit the streets of London for the first time in 20 years as the 260-year-old carriage was removed from its display in the Royal Mews.
A young Elizabeth waved to the crowds in the digital imagery projected onto the coach as a military procession followed the two-mile parade through central London.
The Palace had previously teased that while the queen wasn't planning to ride in the carriage, a "fabulous surprise" was in store.
Elizabeth was also not expected to be seen on the final day of Jubilee events after missing most of the celebrations due to "mobility issues," but made an appearance on the balcony.
She waved to adoring crowds with Prince Charles and Camilla Parker, the Duchess of Cornwall, by her side. Grandson Prince William and wife Kate Middleton joined her majesty, in addition to their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee is wrapping up on Sunday with a street pageant that will march about two miles in London to Buckingham Palace.
Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, mingled with crowds on Sunday at The Oval cricket ground in London for a "Big Jubilee Lunch."
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{{#rendered}}Diana Ross was the finale performance for the "Party at the Palace" celebration honoring Queen Elizabeth. The 78 year old singer wore a black and white tool dress as she sang to the attendees. During her performance, she thanked the Queen for her service.
Elton John performed a special performance for Queen Elizabeth during the "Party at the Palace." His performance was projected onto the walls of Buckingham Palace as he was videotaped from Windsor Castle. John shared that the Queen has greatly impacted his life since he was a child before his performance began.
Alicia Keys performed during the "Party at the Palace" on Saturday night. During her breathtaking performance, the R&B singer shared that London reminds her a lot of her home city of New York.
{{#rendered}}Prince William took a moment to speak during Queen Elizabeth's 'Party at the Palace' to thank his grandmother for her 70 years of service. He also talked about planet preservation and thanked everyone involved in restoring the planet.
"What a wonderful world," William said to conclude his speech.
Italian operatic tenor Andrea Bocelli stunned the crowd with a performance outside Buckingham Palace on Saturday night.
Musical legend Rod Stewart performs during the Platinum Party at the Palace. The 77 year old sported a bright yellow coat during his performance.
{{#rendered}}George Ezra performing during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber and Lin-Manuel Miranda perform during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace.
Michelle Obama, Hugh Jackman, Paul McCartney and others shared warm wishes for Queen Elizabeth through pre-recorded videos that played during the "Party at the Palace" on Saturday.
{{#rendered}}Mimi Webb performs during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace, London, on day three of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth.
Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Charles and Princess Anne watch the Platinum Party at the Palace in front of Buckingham Palace on Saturday.
Adam Lambert of Queen performs with Royal Marine drummers during the "Platinum Party At The Palace" at Buckingham Palace on Saturday.
{{#rendered}}Prince William, Kate Middleton and their children arrive at the "Platinum Party at the Palace" to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee.
Prince William and Kate Middleton made a surprise trip to Cardiff – the capital of Wales – during Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The Epsom Derby was held during William and Middleton’s surprise trip. Princess Anne attended on behalf of Queen Elizabeth; the palace shared on Friday she would not be attending.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took two of their children: Prince George, 8 and Princess Charlotte, 7, on the visit. Their youngest son, Prince Louis, 4, was not present. The young royal recently made headlines by covering his ears and making funny faces during the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Thursday.
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Queen Elizabeth will celebrate 70 years on the throne with a star-studded concert.
On Saturday, BBC will present "Platinum Party At The Palace" from Buckingham Palace. It’s expected to be the most high-profile event during the four-day weekend of festivities.
Some of the biggest names in music, including from rock, pop and classical, will take to the stage during the Platinum Jubilee. The three-stage setup will feature Diana Ross, Queen + Adam Lambert, Alicia Keys, Duran Duran, Rod Stewart, Andrea Bocelli and Nile Rodgers, among others. For Ross, it will be her first UK gig in 15 years.
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{{#rendered}}Princess Anne's daughter Zara Phillips arrived at the Epsom Derby on Saturday with her husband, former rugby player Mike Tindall. Zara, an accomplished equestrian, won an Olympic silver medal in the 2012 summer games.
Princess Anne's son, Peter Phillips, also attended the Epsom Derby with his girlfriend Lindsay Wallace.
Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, took over royal duties at the Epsom Derby Saturday, appearing in place of Queen Elizabeth, who backed out of attending the Derby citing "episodic mobility concerns."
The queen has missed the Epsom Derby just three times in her 70-year reign.
Queen Elizabeth's daughter, Princess Anne, arrived in the royal box at the Epsom Derby and joined the crowd just as it marked the beginning of events by singing the National Anthem.
Princess Anne, dressed in white, was reportedly joined by her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, her son, Peter Phillips, her daughter Zara Phillips, as well as Zara's husband, Mike Tindall. Zara was dressed in a blue floral lace dress.
The Queen is said to be watching the race from home.
{{#rendered}}Royal Twitter accounts opened Saturday's Platinum Jubilee festivities by wishing Lilibet "Lili" Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's daughter, a happy first birthday.
Lilibet, who reportedly met her great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth earlier this week, turns one year old on Saturday.
Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, tweeted, "Wishing Lilibet a very happy 1st birthday today!" from Clarence House's official Twitter account. Prince William and Kate Middleton also wished Lilbet a happy first birthday from their Twitter account.
Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II continue throughout the weekend with horse racing at the Derby at Epsom Downs on Saturday, June 4.
The monarch will miss the event amid "episodic mobility concerns" as she paced herself on the long holiday weekend after bowing out of Friday’s Service of Thanksgiving church service at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
This marks only the third time in her 70-year reign she's missed the Epsom event.
The queen's only daughter, Princess Anne, will represent the family on the queen's behalf.
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The monarch won't attend Saturday's event but other royal family members are expected to make an appearance.
This marks only the third time in her 70-year reign she's missed the Epsom event.
{{#rendered}}LONDON – The service of thanksgiving to the queen Friday was thrown into more royal drama when it was announced Thursday night Her Majesty would not be attending.
She was resting after feeling discomfort during celebrations Thursday. But the royal drama that unfolded Friday on the mega-accession of the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral with various senior members of the royal family attending was what really took the shine on such an auspicious day.
St. Paul’s is known globally thanks to its iconic historical legacy. However, to a more day generation, this was the place where a true royal icon entered a mere lady and left as Princess of Wales. It was there in July 1981 that Diana married her prince in Prince Charles.
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Chef Darren McGrady, former personal chef to Queen Elizabeth II, Diana, and William and Harry, details the royal family members eating preferences.
"When I first started cooked for the Queen I thought it was going to be all opulent like foie gras, lobster…but the Queen is actually very frugal and very plain," McGrady shared with Fox News Digital.
"She liked grilled fish or grilled chicken with a salad and maybe some fruit for dessert. When she had a fancier banquet, the food was a bit heavier. She always liked to use food from the estate, like the salmon came from the river, apple and peaches and any indigenous produce. She absolutely loves chocolate, the darker the better."
McGrady continued: "The Queen hated garlic which actually goes back to the Victorian era where garlic was considered anti-social because of its after effects. So garlic and strong onions she avoided, however, Prince Philip loved it so when he had a dinner party there was lots of garlic on the menu."
"Aside from the holidays, the Queen never had any real traditions, except being very religious and loving chocolate, she’d always give up chocolate for Lent," he shared. "The Queen wasn’t a foodie, she ate to live, not live to eat, didn’t eat lots of the famous British dishes like haggis, but she liked a more jazzed up version of fish and chips."
"Many of the dishes served today at palace date back hundreds of years. They’re classical English dishes, even the birthday cake the Queen would likely be having her favorite chocolate ganache sponge cake, which dates back to Queen Victoria’s chef. Her tastes never changed and it was often very hard to get dishes on the menu. She had her favorite dishes and she stuck with them," McGrady shared.
"I had cooked for the boys starting when they were babies making them all the baby and nursery food a child would eat. They had a typical child’s palate and hated their green vegetables. The boys always got along very well. They’d watch TV together, ride bikes, played hide and seek in the kitchen. They were always doing everything together."
"At the dinner table, it varied at times who would be sitting together. If Diana was on her own, she would eat with the boys, that was always her special time. They’d always eat family style and help themselves. During lunches sometimes the nanny would eat with them, more often than not the meals were her special time," McGrady concluded.
Fox News' Ashley Bittay contributed to this report.
Queen Elizabeth II will not be in attendance at the Epsom Derby on Saturday, according to the palace. The monarch has skipped out on Friday's events due to "some discomfort" she experienced during the Platinum Jubilee events that took place on Thursday.
The queen has only missed two derby appearances during her reign.
{{#rendered}}Will Queen Elizabeth make another public appearance during the Platinum Jubilee weekend? Only time will tell.
The reigning monarch, who is celebrating 70 years on the throne, skipped the Service of Thanksgiving on Friday, which came on the second of four days of festivities. The 96-year-old has had difficulty moving around in recent months and experienced “some discomfort” after smiling and waving to throngs of supporters from the balcony of Buckingham Palace Thursday afternoon.
Prince Charles represented the queen alongside his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Mikhalia Friel, a royal reporter for Insider, told Fox News Digital she’s hopeful that the queen will be seen during Saturday’s star-studded “Platinum At The Palace.”
“The Queen could still be in attendance tomorrow or on Sunday’s Jubilee Pageant,” she explained. “As of now, there are no more cancellations. [Harry and Meghan’s] team has not confirmed which events they will attend.”
“This isn't the first time the Queen has scaled back engagements due to health reasons,” Friel continued. “Just last month, she canceled an appearance in Parliament because of mobility issues and was replaced by her son Prince Charles. Taking into consideration that she is aged 96, this is to be expected. I can see Prince Charles taking a more active role as the queen slows down her engagements. As heir to the throne, he is the queen's right-hand man and the first person she would request to replace her at any given event. He is a monarch in training, after all.
“The future of the monarchy is in the hands of Prince Charles, Duchess of Cornwall, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It's not surprising to see the Cambridges take on more responsibilities since William is second in line to the throne. They have also recently revamped their image to appeal to the younger generation, which you can see through their mode candid approach to their social media. This shows they are willing to adapt and grow with the UK public who follow their every move.”
Elizabeth, who only recently recovered from COVID-19 and has begun using a walking stick, has given Charles an increasingly important role as the public face of the monarchy. But despite scaling back on events, she has turned up at a horse show, opened a subway line and toured the Chelsea Flower Show in a chauffeur-driven royal buggy — a sort of luxurious golf cart.
FOX News' Ashley Bittay and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Prince William and Kate Middleton noticeably sat opposite from Meghan Markle and Prince Harry during the Service of Thanksgiving – and they remained separated during the ceremony.
“While I do still think that tensions are high between the brothers, I believe the physical distance between them at today’s Thanksgiving Service is a strategy developed by the palace to keep the focus on the queen’s accomplishments and celebrations,” Kinsey Schofield, royals expert and creator of ToDiForDaily.com, told Fox News Digital.
“We know that the queen ordered them to be separated at Prince Philip’s funeral and I think that this is a similar situation,” she shared. “There have also been moments of clear discomfort for the California couple - which is why I think they were placed near Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank - who they have remained close to throughout the chaos of the last two years.”
The service marked the first time that the Sussexes and Cambridges were seen together since Commonwealth Day in 2020. That was the last royal appearance made by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex before they stepped back as senior royals that year and moved to California.
A year later, Harry, 37, and Markle, 40, gave a bombshell interview to Oprah Winfrey that confirmed tensions within the palace.
“It does feel like the Sussexes are being taught a lesson or being punished for their behavior post-Megxit,” said Schofield. “We do know that they were upset and felt excluded from one of their last royal engagements at the Commonwealth Service. To be kind, Prince William and Duchess Catherine opted not to enter at their designated time so the Sussexes would not feel rejected. Similar compromises were not made this trip. There is an obvious shift and the palace is refusing to bend to the Sussexes complaints or demands. I do think Harry regrets some of his behavior because no matter how much he complains about his upbringing… it’s all he knows."
Schofield pointed out that it’s likely the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were bracing themselves for a frosty welcome across the pond. Their popularity has plummeted in the UK since they’ve decided to step back as royals.
“Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have likely mentally prepared for negative feedback,” she said. “I’ve heard that Meghan stays on top of her press coverage, they know what the latest YouGov polls say... where their popularity stands. It will be interesting to see if the Sussexes show up for the 'Party At The Palace' on Saturday after a not-so-warm welcome. Had a respected and celebrated member of the royal family arrived along with the Sussexes, it truly could have softened the reception but there is a protocol that the palace will no longer stray from to appease Harry and Meghan.”
Still, it’s the queen, Schofield said, who’s hoping peace will finally be made within the family.
“I do believe that it’s important to the queen that she ties up any loose ends before the King Charles Regency,” she said.
FOX News’ Ashley Bittay contributed to this report.
TV personality Sharon Osbourne said she feels sorry for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have been separated from the royal family and received a smattering of boos Friday during Platinum Jubilee celebrations in London.
Osbourne discussed the Duke and Duchess of Sussex during Fox News' special coverage with Piers Morgan, Ainsley Earhardt and Martha MacCallum.
"The royal family has always been like a Shakespearean play for me," said Osbourne. "I have to tell you, when I saw them going in [to the church] earlier on, I felt sorry for them. And the way they were parted from the family, I felt sorry for Harry yesterday too."
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{{#rendered}}Meghan Markle and Prince Harry skipped the reception at Guildhall after they attended the Service of Thanksgiving.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex publicly reunited with other members of the British royal family for the service, booing was heard, overpowering the church bells.
Meanwhile, Harry’s brother, Prince William, and his wife Kate Middleton received plenty of cheers from royal supporters.
“Prince Harry and Meghan Markle left to go to their Windsor home of Frogmore Cottage this afternoon, leaving the rest of the royal family to attend a reception without them following the Service of Thanksgiving for the queen,” royal reporter Neil Sean told Fox News Digital exclusively. “But why was that? Simple really. They could have attended but they must feel the frost in the room. And given the level of warmth they have received so far within the family this makes perfect sense.”
“However also look at this from their point of view,” Sean continued. “Once again you can twist this into negative PR which we know Harry, in particular, is good at given the Oprah interview. The truth is they could have attended and were invited but wisely chose to stay away, claiming they wanted to get back to their children.”
Sean noted that this is “not the end of this story” as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are in London to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee.
“Stay tuned as the story will evolve and someone as ever in the world of Harry and Meghan will get the blame but it won’t be them,” said Sean. "Let me also point this out – It was a last-minute decision I hear by them. So many thought they would be in attendance [but] something went wrong.”
Prince Andrew is not expected to be seen during Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee weekend.
On Thursday, a spokesperson for Buckingham Palace announced the Duke of York tested positive for COVID. He didn't attend the Service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul’s Cathedral Friday to celebrate his mother’s 70 years on the throne.
The 62-year-old did not appear on the palace balcony during Trooping the Colour. He stepped back from royal duties in 2019 due to his controversial association with late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
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What are the royals eating during the Platinum Jubilee weekend? Coronation chicken, of course.
Sky News correspondent Laura Bundock tweeted a photo of what is believed to be the menu at Guildhall, the reception following the Service of Thanksgiving on Friday.
“What to serve the royal family for lunch this jubilee weekend?” she tweeted. “Coronation Chicken obvs.”
Welsh lamb shepherd’s pie, English sparkling wine, and rare fillet of Hereford beef are also featured for the festivities.
{{#rendered}}The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were noticeably booed while leaving the Service of Thanksgiving on Friday. Jeers were loudly heard during the couple’s first public appearance with the royal family since they stepped back in 2020. Catcalls overpowered the bells as the couple put on a brave face.
As for Prince William and Kate Middleton, they received the loudest cheers of the morning.
The National Service of Thanksgiving ended after nearly an hour. The family is now heading to Guildhall for a reception hosted by Vincent Keaveny, the Lord Mayor of the City of London and the City of London Corporation.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle make their exit from the service.
A relieved looking Harry was spotted chatting with his cousin Zara Tindall.
{{#rendered}}Sisters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie wave to the crowd as they leave the service.
Their father, Prince Andrew, was not in attendance. He was diagnosed with COVID-19.
Princess Anne and her family follow the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they exit the cathedral.
Prince William and Kate Middleton are greeted once more by a roaring crowd as the service comes to an end.
{{#rendered}}The national anthem has now been sung to signify the end of the service.
The attendees will now leave St Paul’s Catherdral.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave a reading during the service.
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice," he said. "Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
"Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
As Queen Elizabeth watched the Service of Thanksgiving from her television at Windsor Castle, the Archbishop of York thanked the reigning monarch for “staying the course” during his sermon.
The Most Rev Stephen Cottrell compared the 96-year-old’s love of horseracing to her decades-long reign, noting it “reflects the distance of Aintree more than the sprints of Epsom.”
Cottrell told the congregation he was “sorry” the queen could not attend, but glad there is “still more to come.”
“It is well known that Her Majesty likes horse racing,” he said. “I don't have any great tips for the Derby tomorrow, but since the scriptures describe life as a race set before us, let me observe that her long reign reflects the distance of Aintree more than the sprints of Epsom. Certainly, less dressage than most people imagine.”
“But with endurance, through times of change and challenge, joy and sorrow, she continues to offer herself in the service of our country and the Commonwealth,” he continued. “Your Majesty, we're sorry you're not with us this morning in person, but you are still in the saddle. And we are all glad that there is still more to come.”
The queen decided not to attend Friday’s church service after experiencing “some discomfort” during Thursday’s events.
{{#rendered}}Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton sat on the opposite aisle from Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle.
The service marked the first time that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have been seen together since Commonwealth Day in March 2020. It was the final royal appearance for Harry, 37, and Markle, 40, before they stepped back as senior members that year.
As William, 39, and Middleton, 40, looked forward and chatted with Princess Anne, Harry appeared nervous and looked up at times.
True Royalty TV co-founder Nick Bullen previously told Fox News Digital that the royal family has been working behind the scenes in trying to make amends.
"What I’m told is that the whole family is really trying to repair the relationship with Harry," he said. "There is a real hope within the family, from the queen, the Prince of Wales, Prince William and Kate Middleton, that the relationships with the Sussexes can be repaired. Because at heart, William and Harry are two brothers who’ve loved and supported each other for so many years. For the Prince of Wales, this is his son whom he loves and supports. For the queen, this is her grandson, someone she loves and adores very much. Everybody wants to repair this relationship for different reasons."
"All I hear from all the households, whether it’s Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, or Kensington Palace, is that they want to find a way to repair this relationship," Bullen added.
The Service of Thanksgiving has officially begun.
The congregation was ordered to stand for the procession of religious leaders, and the choirs, followed by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Prince of Wales.
The royals took to their seats.There will be several hymns sung, along with readings from the Old Testament.
The service will end with the singing of the national anthem.
Prince Harry appeared to be nervous as he took his seat alongside his wife Meghan Markle inside St. Paul's Cathedral.
The service marks the first time the couple has appeared publicly with the royal family in two years.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior members in 2020. They later moved to California.
{{#rendered}}Prince Charles arrives with his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. He will be reuniting with his two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, as they celebrate the queen's reign.
Prince William and Kate Middleton arrive to a roaring crowd.
Princesses Eugenie's sister, Princess Beatrice, walked the steps to the cathedral with her husband.
{{#rendered}}Princess Anne and her brother Prince Edward have arrived to St. Paul's Cathedral, along with Princess Eugenie and her husband, as well as Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.
More than 400 invitees – including government and faith leaders, teachers, military members, as well as COVID-19 frontline workers – are gathering to celebrate the queen's 70 years on the throne.
Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee festivities continue with the Service of Thanksgiving.
The monarch won't be in attendance for the royal church service but Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall will be at the event.
Plus, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are set to attend as well.
Arrivals for the event are set to begin at 5:30 am ET.
This year marks the Platinum Jubilee year for Queen Elizabeth, and the festivities have begun.
The service of thanksgiving will be held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London Friday. The ceremony demonstrates the queen’s spiritual leadership and being the head of the Church of England.
The service is set to include Bible readings, anthems and prayers to thank Queen Elizabeth, who will not be in attendance, for her reign of 70 years. It is a private event but will be broadcast.
Here's a look at what fans can expect from the royal event.
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{{#rendered}}Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie Johnson ascend the steps to St Paul's.
UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace arrives.
Ex-British Prime Minister Tony Blair arrives with his wife Cherie Blair.
{{#rendered}}Former Prime Minister Theresa May and her husband Philip May arrive at St. Paul's Cathedral for the queen's service of thanksgiving.
Royal fans gather outside of St. Paul's Cathedral in London ahead of the royal arrivals for the Service of Thanksgiving honoring the queen's 70-year reign.
Prince Charles will stand in for the 96-year-old monarch who won't attend after "some discomfort" during Thursday's events.
After making their way to the U.K. for Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are expected to reunite with the senior royals Friday.
The pair, who were not on the balcony during Thursday's Trooping The Colour, will attend the service of thanksgiving at St. Paul's Cathedral Friday morning for Queen Elizabeth's continued Platinum Jubilee celebrations honoring her 70 years on the throne.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex returned to the United Kingdom this week in honor of the monarch and were seen celebrating with royal family members at the Trooping the Colour parade. They were not permitted on the balcony, which was designated for working senior royal members.
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{{#rendered}}Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee is in full swing.
The official birthday of the queen kicked off Thursday with Trooping the Colour and the lighting of the beacons. Friday's main event is the Service of Thanksgiving. Queen Elizabeth herself will not be attending the event due to "some discomfort."
The Service of Thanksgiving is one event of many to occur throughout the week and weekend as Britain celebrates 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II's reign.
To read more, click here.
Prince Louis – the youngest child of Prince William and Kate Middleton – had a memorable moment during the Trooping the Colour ceremony.
Louis, 4, waved to the crowd, made funny faces and covered his hears during the noisy flypast as the family stood on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
An image of Louis covering his ears and yelling next to Queen Elizabeth has taken off on social media, quickly becoming a meme.
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As the festivities continue, one royal expert tells Fox News Digital that Prince William and Prince Harry “are at least doing their best to appear to be getting along” for their “grandmother’s sake.”
“William in particular realizes how important it is for the royal family to put up a united front at this moment when we are on the threshold of transitioning from one monarch to another,” Christopher Andersen, Royal Biographer / NYT Bestselling Author, “Brothers and Wives: Inside the Private Lives of William, Kate, Harry, and Meghan,” tells Fox News Digital.
“But beneath all the pomp and circumstance, there remain serious unresolved issues between the Sussexes and the rest of the royals,” he adds. “Don't forget, [Prince] Charles and Camilla [the Duchess of Cornwall] are a big part of this equation as well,” Andersen states. “The last thing Charles wanted as he prepared to be king was to have his younger son essentially bail on the royal family. The Sussexes' decision to make up a life for themselves in California still rankles.
“It's going to take a lot more than a party--even one as big as the Jubilee--to set things straight between them,” Andersen believes.
Andersen also touched on the 25th anniversary of Diana’s death, and how Kate Middleton and the late princess “share many of the same qualities.”
“She's been gone a quarter-century and still casts a giant shadow over Britain and the monarchy,” Andersen says. “If she were alive today, I think she'd see the Jubilee as bittersweet. On the one hand, William, Kate, and their children are Diana's revenge. In the end, they are the ones who will carry the monarchy forward into the next century,” he explained.
“But it would also upset her to see the bitter rift that still exists between the two princes she always called "My Boys.”
“Diana would have probably approved of Harry making his own way and even moving part-time to California, but at the same time she would have wanted him on that royal balcony playing the part he was born to play," Andersen added.
“Kate and Diana share many of the same qualities. Like the mother-in-law she never met, Kate is obviously beautiful, empathetic, stylish, smart, and charismatic. But unlike Diana, Kate is all about self-control--the ultimate team player.”
Fox News Digital's Ashley Bittay contributed to this report.
{{#rendered}}Queen Elizabeth lit the beacon at Windsor Castle, as her grandson, Prince William, watched alongside thousands of revelers at the official dual Lighting Of The Principal Beacon at Buckingham Palace on Thursday evening in London.
Queen Elizabeth marked 70 years of service to the United Kingdom with Platinum Jubilee celebrations slated throughout the weekend.
The Queen touched the Commonwealth Nations Globe to start the lighting ceremony, with beacon pageant master Bruno Peek, who has overseen the Platinum Jubilee Beacons Project from its inception.
William was greeted by the Chair of The Queen's Green Canopy, Sir Nicholas Bacon, and the designer of the "Tree of Trees," Thomas Heatherwick.
The 70-foot structure was designed to honor the queen's decades of service, and stands tall outside of Buckingham Palace.
More than 2,800 beacons were lit at the Palace and across the UK, including atop the four highest peaks, as well as on the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, and British Overseas Territories.
Flaming tributes will be seen in 54 Commonwealth capitals across five continents, from Tonga and Samoa in the South Pacific to Belize in the Caribbean.
Despite her attendance earlier in the day at the Trooping of Colours event which honored her 96th birthday, The Palace issued a release that the queen would not be in attendance on Friday's Service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
“The Queen greatly enjoyed today’s Birthday Parade and Flypast but did experience some discomfort,” the statement read.
“Taking into account the journey and activity required to participate in tomorrow’s National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, Her Majesty with great reluctance has concluded that she will not attend.”
The Palace added: “The Queen is looking forward to participating in tonight’s Beacon lighting event at Windsor Castle and would like to thank all those who made today such a memorable occasion.”
To read more, click here.
Thousands of revelers joined together to watch beacon lighting ceremonies throughout Britain and across the Commonwealth during Platinum Jubilee celebrations to commemorate Queen Elizabeth's 70 years of service.
The 21-meter Tree of Trees sculpture is set to be illuminated during a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace, as beacons across the globe are lit atop mountains, cathedral towers, castle battlements, on town and village greens, country estates, parks and farms, along beaches and on cliff tops, according to the Palace.
Despite her attendance earlier in the day at the Trooping of Colours event which honored her 96th birthday, The Palace issued a release that the queen would not be in attendance on Friday's Service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
“The Queen greatly enjoyed today’s Birthday Parade and Flypast but did experience some discomfort,” the statement read.
“Taking into account the journey and activity required to participate in tomorrow’s National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, Her Majesty with great reluctance has concluded that she will not attend.”
The Palace added: “The Queen is looking forward to participating in tonight’s Beacon lighting event at Windsor Castle and would like to thank all those who made today such a memorable occasion.”
Following the news that Queen Elizabeth will no longer be attending the Service of Thanksgiving, a royal expert told Fox News Digital that it's "another sobering reminder that the Queen's record-shattering [70-year] reign is drawing to an end."
"With that in mind, maybe [Princes] Harry and William and their father [Prince Charles] will find some way to make amends," Christopher Andersen, Royal Biographer / NYT Bestselling Author, “Brothers and Wives: Inside the Private Lives of William, Kate, Harry, and Meghan," told Fox News Digital.
He added, "They didn't make any headway at Prince Philip's funeral, maybe this time they will."
Fox News Digital's Ashley Bittay contributed to this report
{{#rendered}}Kate Middleton channeled the late Princess Diana during Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The celebration – which honors the Queen’s 70 years on the throne – kicked off on Thursday with the Trooping the Colour ceremony.
Middleton stunned during the ceremony in a white Alexander McQueen coat dress, paired with her late mother-in-law’s diamond and sapphire earrings. She also wore Diana’s matching necklace.
To read more, click here.
Queen Elizabeth II will not be in attendance at the Service of Thanksgiving. The event is set to take place Friday evening at St. Paul's Cathedral.
"The Queen greatly enjoyed today’s Birthday Parade and Flypast but did experience some discomfort," a statement from the palace said. "Taking into account the journey and activity required to participate in tomorrow’s National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, Her Majesty with great reluctance has concluded that she will not attend."
"The Queen is looking forward to participating in tonight’s Beacon lighting event at Windsor Castle and would like to thank all those who made today such a memorable occasion."
The United Kingdom is celebrating 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II's reign. June 2 marks the first day of the queen's Platinum Jubilee, which will conclude on June 5.
The Jubilee will consist of a handful of events set to honor and celebrate Queen Elizabeth II. It follows Silver, Gold and Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 1977, 2002 and 2012, which marked 25, 50 and 60 years on the throne.
Jubilees are usually marked with a combination of ceremonial military displays, a church service and street parties.
The lighting of the beacons is one of two events to take place on June 2.
Click here to read more.
{{#rendered}}Trooping the Colour, an amazing spectacle of pomp and pageantry, finally returned to London this week for the first time since 2019.
Trooping the Colour showcased more than 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians going on parade, with mega crowds gathering in the streets of London for this special Platinum Jubilee edition. And what a day it’s been.
Despite the weather, which rained and shined at various points, it was a day to remember and this really showcases just what Great Britain is all about to the world Trooping the Colour began on the stroke of 11am local time and starts at the monarch's H Q hub, Buckingham Palace.
To read more, click here.
Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee has been a joyous time for many Brits, but why should their neighbors across the pond care?
The British reigning monarch, 96, is celebrating 70 years on the throne. Nile Gardiner, a former aide to British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, told Fox News Digital that the queen is just as revered by Americans who have long been fascinated by the pomp and pageantry associated with the royal family.
“Why should Americans care? This is significant for Americans as well because the queen is extremely popular among Americans,” Gardiner explained. “Year after year polls generally show her with an approval rating in the US about 70%. That is continuously higher than most US presidents including the current president.”
“The queen is tremendously respected by American people,” he continued. “She is seen as someone who embodies leadership, service, and the powerful relationship between the US and UK. The queen has represented the extremely successful US/UK partnership. Americans recognize this and share their support for that. The UK remains our strongest ally and the queen embodies that.”
Gardiner also noted that the queen’s life-long pledge to public service is one that still sparks inspiration decades later.
“The queen is seen as someone with tremendous dignity, duty and service to her county,” he shared. “The spirit of service that Americans admire greatly, her character is admired greatly on both sides of the Atlantic. The most popular global figure for the last seven decades.”
Gardiner described feeling great pride during the Trooping of Colour parade on Thursday. Despite the queen facing mobility issues, she appeared on the balcony twice and was all smiles for the occasion.
“What the British do best in the world is pomp and circumstance, its centuries of history and tradition are woven together,” he said. “The British celebrate history and military past, so the jubilee is also a recognition of Britain’s armed forces in history and the esteem in which they are held today. The extravagance encompasses the monarchy and British greatness seen on the world stage, especially in this new era when the UK left the European Union and is once again a free nation. It is a shining moment on the world stage, a new self-confidence. The jubilee reflects a nation with a great history and a positive future as a world leader along the US."
“Watching everything closely on the ground, the celebration thus far has been awe-inspiring,” he reflected. “It is an incredible day here in London. Massive crowds in London. Packed with people from all over the world. The celebration so far is a hugely successful event. Seeing the queen on the balcony was very inspiring at age of 96 and after seven decades on the throne, the queen still commands and projects leadership, greatly inspiring to see it."
“This is a hugely significant event, as she is the longest-reigning monarch, she’s been on the throne longer than Queen Victoria so this Jubilee is a massive event," he continued. "I don’t know if we’ll ever see anything like this again. Seventy years is an incredible time and she has been on the throne for the course of 14 British Prime Ministers and been on the throne for a similar number of US presidents.
"She became queen when Churchill was Prime Minister, immediately following the aftermath of WWII up until Brexit. It is an important event for the British people as well, it is a moment when Brits come together as a united nation and it sets important precedence for the future.”
FOX News' Ashley Bittay contributed to this report.
Prince Andrew has tested positive for COVID and will no longer attend the Service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul’s Cathedral on Friday.
The service is to coincide with the Platinum Jubilee weekend.
“After undertaking a routine test, the duke has tested positive for COVID and with regret will no longer be attending tomorrow’s service,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson announced on Thursday.
The Duke of York was not present during the Trooping of Colour. He stepped back as a working royal in 2019 following his controversial association with late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to reports, the ex-husband of Sarah Ferguson has not seen the queen since he tested positive.
{{#rendered}}When Queen Elizabeth first appeared on the palace balcony during Thursday’s Trooping the Colour, she had one companion by her side.
The 96-year-old, who is celebrating 70 years on the throne, was accompanied by her first cousin Edward, the Duke of Kent, who was dressed in his military uniform. The 86-year-old later joined the other senior members of the royal family as they watched the military flypast.
This was the first time the queen appeared on the balcony without her husband Prince Philip. The Duke of Edinburgh passed away in 2021 at age 99.
Edward is the son of Prince George, the younger brother of King George VI, the queen’s father. His mother, Marina, was the princess of Greece and Denmark. The matriarch’s mother was Grand Duchess Elena Vladimirovna of Russia, a granddaughter of Emperor Alexander II of Russia.
Edward inherited the title Duke of Kent after his father died in a wartime flying accident in 1942. The prince was just seven years old at the time of the patriarch’s death.
Like his relatives, the duke has dedicated his life to service. He also served in the armed forces for over two decades.
Edward “is involved with over 140 different charities, organizations and professional bodies which cover a wide range of issues, from commemorating the war dead, to fostering the development of British technology and industry,” the royal family’s website revealed.
“His Royal Highness undertakes numerous engagements each year in support of these organizations, both in the UK and across the Commonwealth,” it added.
One of his primary causes is raising awareness of the sacrifices that were made during World War II. He has been active in fostering German-British relations. He has also been president of the Stroke Association since 1977, among his numerous roles.
Edward and his wife Katharine, Duchess of Kent, live at Wren House in Kensington Palace, the London residence of Prince William, Kate Middleton and their three children.
Despite their popularity plummeting in the UK, many royal watchers are hoping the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will heal their family rift amid the joyous Platinum Jubilee.
Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped back as senior members of the British royal family in 2020 over what they described as the British media’s intrusions and racist attitudes toward the former “Suits” star. The family now resides in the coastal city of Montecito, California.
In the wake of quitting royal duties, they gave an explosive TV interview to Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, in which the couple described painful comments about how dark their son Archie’s skin might be before his birth. The duchess, 40, talked about the intense isolation she felt inside the royal family that led her to contemplate suicide.
At the time, Buckingham Palace said the allegations of racism made by the couple were “concerning” and would be addressed privately.
Richard Fitzwilliams, who has followed the lives of the royal family for decades, told Fox News Digital healing is needed now more than ever as the queen, 96, celebrates 70 years on the throne.
The couple traveled to the UK for the festivities.
“I understand that Meghan and Harry were watching [Thursday’s Trooping the Colour], however, I did not see them,” said Fitzwilliams. “I think it was right for the queen to choose only the working members. I hope the rift is resolved but that Oprah interview was so destructive. They were the contemporary face of the family and they lost a lot of support among the young people... I recognize the problems with their family but it only makes sense to heal the rift.”
“But it is a good thing they are here," Fitzwilliams continued. “It is necessary to keep up appearances. [Prince] Andrew and Harry and Meghan will all attend the Service of Thanksgiving [on Friday]. What happens behind the scenes is another matter but the queen is deeply religious, so it is important they are all here but the queen will remain the center of attention these next few days.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were not on the palace balcony during Trooping the Colour. Only senior members accompanied the queen. Still, Fitzwilliams shared that the event “went extremely well.”
“Was great to see Her Majesty making two appearances on the balcony despite her mobility issues and giving the salute with her cousin,” said Fitzwilliams. “We started seeing a transition in 2015 where [Prince] Charles started doing more and more on behalf of the queen. But it is a very joyous day, the military pageantry was superbly carried out.”
“I thought the event went extremely well,” he shared. “Buckingham Palace is the world’s best-known palace and it was used superbly the way Edward the 7th had established it to be used for this sort of occasion and the iconic balcony experience. They had the A-Team of working royals on the balcony.”
The royal commentator also revealed he was elated to see Prince William and Kate Middleton’s children show off their unique personalities while on the balcony.
“It was absolutely delightful to see the great-grandchildren,” he said. “They always manage to steal the show. When they do something inappropriate they just steal peoples’ hearts. It’s a thrilling experience for the Cambridges to be at an occasion like this.”
“Kate looked stunning as always,” he shared. “She wears clothes well, has poise and beauty, I wouldn’t compare her to Princess Diana as I feel she is a fashion icon in her own right.”
Fox News' Ashley Bittay and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Queen Elizabeth, who is celebrating 70 years on the throne, is said to be "pleased" with her grandson, the future king of England.
Prince William, who is second in line, has been helping the other senior royals kick off the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Last weekend, the Duke of Cambridge took on the role of leading the Colonel’s Review, a military rehearsal for Trooping the Colour, the queen’s upcoming birthday parade.
As part of his royal duties, the 39-year-old was on hand to pass the Irish Guards as part of the festivities being held this week. William, as holder of the honorary position of Colonel of the regiment, ensured the troops were ready.
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{{#rendered}}Prince Louis, the youngest son of Kate Middleton and Prince William, has become an internet sensation.
The 4-year-old quickly became a popular meme on social media amid the Trooping the Colour on Thursday.
The reigning monarch, 96, is celebrating 70 years on the throne.
Louis and his siblings, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, made their carriage ride debut alongside their mother, Kate Middleton, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. They later appeared on the palace balcony with other senior members of the British royal family.
Louis stood beside the queen, his great-grandmother. He happily waved during the military flypast and then dramatically covered his ears as the noises grew louder.
At one point, Middleton, 40, was spotted repeatedly reminding her son to take his hands out of his mouth – a moment many mothers can identify with.
In more heartfelt moments, the queen was seen chatting with Louis and happily pointing things out for him.
Louis’ father is second in line to the throne.
George, 8, made his Trooping the Colour debut in 2015. His sister Charlotte, 7, appeared for the first time in 2016. Louis first appeared on the balcony in 2019.
Prince Harry’s popularity has plummeted amid the Trooping the Colour.
Queen Elizabeth’s grandson, who landed in his homeland for the Platinum Jubilee festivities with his wife Meghan Markle, is experiencing record lows, Hilary Fordwich noted. “The once national popular Prince Harry’s public popularity has plummeted,” the royals commentator told Fox News Digital. “Given this national sentiment, it’s not surprising Harry and Meghan aren’t very welcome by either the Royal family or the British public.”
“Will there be booing? Probably not, the British don’t want to in any way undermine a celebration of Her Majesty but there have been very public warnings to them in the media not to steal the limelight,” she shared. “Their Netflix crew hasn’t been issued media credentials and has basically been warned to stay away.”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not appear on the palace balcony as they’re not senior royals. The couple stepped back from duties in 2020.
According to a survey conducted by YouGov, a mere one-third of Brits (32%) support the prince, 37, and less than a quarter (23%) hold a positive view of his wife, 40.
Fordwich shared that despite the couple’s highly publicized visit, the focus will be on the reigning monarch, who is celebrating 70 years on the throne.
“Her Majesty embodies and symbolizes all that the British hold dear - devotion to selfless duty, dignity, humility, hard work, stoicism and a very proper ‘stiff upper lip,’” she said. “As she herself declared on her 21st birthday, she would dedicate her ‘whole life whether it be long or short’ to the service of her people.”
“So it’s more about that service and selfless dedication to duty the British love,” Fordwich continued. “She doesn’t share her emotions because she’s devoted to her nation and to the Commonwealth, which simply isn’t about her. She represents stability, kindness, inclusiveness and tolerance. “
Fox News' Ashley Bittay contributed to this report.
Meghan Markle was spotted during Trooping the Colour.
The Duchess of Sussex was captured on camera playfully telling some royal children to be quiet as they watched the parade.
One of the children present was Savannah Phillips, the queen's great-grandchild. Her father is Peter Phillips, the son of Princess Anne. Mia and Lena Tindall are the daughters of Zara Tindall, whose mother is Anne, 71.
The 40-year-old wore a navy dress with an oversized hat as Princess Beatrice’s husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, looked on.
The former American actress and her husband, Prince Harry, were later spotted chatting with Queen Elizabeth’s cousin, the Duke of Kent.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not appear on the palace balcony as they’re not senior members. The couple stepped back in 2020.
{{#rendered}}Pope Francis sent a telegram to Queen Elizabeth offering his prayers and good wishes amid Trooping the Colour.
“On this joyful occasion of your Majesty’s birthday, and as you celebrate this Platinum Jubilee year, I send cordial greetings and good wishes, together with the renewed assurance of my prayers that Almighty God will bestow upon you, the members of the Royal Family and all the people of the nation blessings of unity, prosperity and peace,” it read.
According to reports, the 85-year-old donated a Cedar of Lebanon to the “Queen’s Green Canopy,” an initiative that invites people from across the UK to “Plant a Tree for the Jubilee.” It will dedicate a network of 70 Ancient Woodlands across the UK and identify 70 Ancient Trees in honor of the queen, who is celebrating 70 years on the throne.
The pope shared that his tree symbolizes prosperity in the Bible.
The queen and her late husband, Prince Philip, met the pope in 2014. She has met four popes as queen in her lifetime.
Queen Elizabeth shared an adorable moment with her great-grandson that was captured on camera.
The 96-year-old was spotted answering Prince Louis' questions as the pair watched military jets fly over Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Colour.
The youngest son of Prince William and Kate Middleton, 4, appeared chatty while the monarch happily pointed things out to him.
Queen Elizabeth and other senior members of the British royal family were all smiles as military jets flew over Buckingham Palace.
Aircraft from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force ruled the skies as the crowds cheered.
The reigning monarch, 96, wore sunglasses to accompany her festive attire.
Piers Morgan joked that the queen was rocking her "Tom Cruise 'Maverick'" shades.
{{#rendered}}Queen Elizabeth returned to the palace balcony with her family.
The senior members who accompanied the queen to watch the military flypast include:
Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall
Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis
Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, and their children, Louise and James.
Princess Anne and Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence
Prince Richard and Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester
Prince Edward, Duke of Kent
Princess Alexandra
Kate Middleton made a stylish statement in honor of her late mother-in-law.
For the Trooping the Colour parade, the Duchess of Cambridge wore Princess Diana's diamond and sapphire earrings.
The wives of Prince William and Prince Harry are known for wearing the late princess' jewelry, which were inherited by her sons.
The earrings were worn several times by Diana, including for the 1996 Met Gala.
The earrings are a similar design to Diana’s engagement ring, which was passed on to the duchess when she and William got engaged in 2010.
Middleton, 40, was accompanied by her three children and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Prince Louis, the youngest son of Prince William and Kate Middleton, wore his father's mini sailor suit for this year's Trooping the Colour.
The suit was originally sported during Trooping the Colour in 1985. That was the year William's brother, Prince Harry, made his debut.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are known for recycling clothing.
In 2015, Prince George, made his Trooping the Colour debut by rocking a baby blue romper 31 years after William had worn the same outfit.
{{#rendered}}The British reigning monarch salutes the public from the balcony during Trooping the Colour.
The 96-year-old wore a festive powder blue suit with a hat. She was all smiles. The pale blue coatdress and her go-to pearls were previously featured in her newest portrait.
Elizabeth was accompanied by her cousin, the Duke of Kent.
The queen, who is suffering from mobility issues, held on to a cane while admiring the parade. She will soon be accompanied by other members of her family.
For the first time in her 70-year reign, Elizabeth did not take part in the parade. Instead, she saluted from the cavalry on the balcony.
Prince Andrew, known as the queen's favorite son, isn't at this year's Trooping the Colour, revealed Piers Morgan.
The Duke of York has been disgraced by a sex scandal and his links to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The 62-year-old announced in 2019 that he was stepping back following his nuclear televised interview about his associations with Epstein.
The palace previously announced that only working royals will appear on the balcony with the queen to greet the public.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are in town for the queen's Platinum Jubilee, but they're not playing an active role during the Trooping the Colour.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior members of the British royal family in 2020.
For this year's festivities, the queen decided that only royal family members “currently undertaking official public duties” would join her on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to greet the public.
A spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed that Harry, 37, and Markle, 40, are watching the proceedings with other members of the royal family from the Major General’s Office, an office in Buckingham Palace that overlooks the parade ground.
{{#rendered}}There's a special reason why Prince William didn't accompany his wife Kate Middleton by carriage at Trooping the Colour.
The Duchess of Cambridge took part in the parade celebrating Queen Elizabeth's birthday by riding in a horse-drawn carriage. The 40-year-old was accompanied by her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, as well as Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
As for her spouse, the Duke of Cambridge participated in the procession by riding on horseback. He sported his military uniform and a bearskin hat. The 39-year-old was accompanied by his father, Prince Charles, who is heir to the throne, and aunt, Princess Anne.
Anne, 71, is the only daughter of the queen.
The family will later appear together on the Buckingham Palace balcony, where working members of the royal family will gather to watch the Royal Air Force flypast.
Prince Charles has been stepping up to the plate as his mother, Queen Elizabeth, delegates more responsibilities to her eldest son and heir.
The Platinum Jubilee marks the British reigning monarch’s 70 years on the throne. And while the 96-year-old has shown no signs of stepping aside, the Prince of Wales has been taking on more royal duties in preparation for what would be the greatest role of his life.
Just last month, the 73-year-old presided over the State Opening of Parliament, one of the monarch’s most important duties. True Royalty TV co-founder Nick Bullen, who has worked closely with Charles for about a decade, told Fox News Digital that the prince isn’t in a hurry to become king.
Click here to read the rest.
British tradition is on full display as Queen Elizabeth's birthday parade marches on.
The parade includes 1,400 soldiers and 10 military bands playing in unison.
Each member of the British military swears an oath of allegiance to Her Majesty.
{{#rendered}}Prince William's children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, made their debut at Trooping the Colour riding in a carriage.
They were accompanied by their mother Kate Middleton and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Prince William and his father, Prince Charles, the heirs to the throne, rode in the Queen’s Birthday Parade on horseback, following tradition.
Princess Anne was also spotted on horseback.
The family is expected to appear on the balcony soon.
Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall is seen in the rear of a car as she is driven along the Mall Thursday morning before riding through the parade on a carriage with Duchess Kate.
Others royals including Prince Charles and William have arrived on the first of four days of celebrations to mark the Platinum Jubilee.
{{#rendered}}The palace confirmed that only working senior members will appear on the balcony, which means Prince Andrew, as well as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the duke and duchess of Sussex, won’t be present.
"After careful consideration, the queen has decided this year’s traditional Trooping the Color balcony appearance on Thursday 2nd June will be limited to Her Majesty and those members of the royal family who are currently undertaking official public duties on behalf of the queen,’’ the palace said last month.
To read more, click here.
Just last month, the 73-year-old presided over the State Opening of Parliament, one of the monarch’s most important duties. True Royalty TV co-founder Nick Bullen, who has worked closely with Charles for about a decade, told Fox News Digital that the prince isn’t in a hurry to become king.
"[Charles] is the longest-serving Prince of Wales in history," said Bullen. "And this is a job that he’s been preparing for his whole life. But I’ve filmed him, and we’ve got documentaries on True Royalty TV where he says this, that it’s not something that he wishes for because it’s an odd mix to wish for the top job. To be king is to wish for your mother to pass away. No one is going to wish for that."
"He has really thrown himself into the job and is ready to be king when the moment comes," Bullen shared. "But it’s not something that he is counting down the days for."
Bullen is an award-winning documentarian who has been making programs about the British royal family for 20 years. In celebration of the Platinum Jubilee, the subscription video-on-demand service is highlighting a new special titled "Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee: The Collection," along with six documentaries featuring historic footage and interviews from the queen’s reign.
For more on this story: Queen Elizabeth's heir Prince Charles isn't in a hurry to be king for this reason, royal filmmaker says
{{#rendered}}The festivities celebrating Queen Elizabeth's 70-year reign have begun as the Queen's birthday parade kicks off.
Members of the royal family -- from Prince William to Prince Charles -- are all expected to appear. They will be joined by 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians, according to the palace.
The event is set to conclude with a fly-past by the Royal Air Force which the royal family including the Queen watch from the Buckingham Palace balcony. A 41-gun salute is also fired in honor of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Trooping of the Colour, a ceremony marking the official birthday of the Queen of Britain, is minutes away.The ceremony is one event of many to occur throughout the week as Britain celebrates 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II's reign.
It follows Silver, Gold and Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 1977, 2002 and 2012, which marked 25, 50 and 60 years on the throne. Jubilees are usually marked with a combination of ceremonial military displays, a church service and street parties.
The events began on June 2 and will continue through June 5.
To read more, click here.
Royal fans line the mall leading to Buckingham Palace in anticipation of the Trooping of the Colors Thursday morning.
{{#rendered}}The Sex Pistols, the English punk rock band, has re-released its banned hit single, "God Save the Queen," as the monarchy prepares for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee, starting Thursday.
The song was released in 1977 in a band gig the weekend of the queen's silver jubilee. The song featured tweaked lyrics from the British national anthem, including rhyming "God save the queen" with "she ain’t no human being" and "fascist regime".
The performance was soon shut down by London police and the band received negative responses from the public as the song sparked outrage for its inflammatory language. Band members were often attacked on the streets and they were eventually banned from both TV and radio appearances.
Despite public reaction, the song ultimately landed on the No. 2 spot on the charts and the band is now hoping to take spot No. 1.
For more on this story: Sex Pistols re-releases banned single for Queen's Jubilee
Actor Damian Lewis will be among hundreds of Britons to be honored by the queen amid her jubilee celebrations.
Lewis, known for “Homeland” and “Billions,” was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Others to be honored include crime writer Ian Rankin, pianist and composer Stephen Hough, filmmaker Isaac Julien, author Salman Rushdie, Roald Dahl illustrator Quentin Blake, fashion designer Stella McCartney, screenwriter Heidi Thomas, “Total Eclipse of the Heart” singer Bonnie Tyler and ex-Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand.
Many of the other distractions belong to non-celebrities, who reflect causes close to the monarch’s heart, including youth engagement, the environment and public service.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Queen Elizabeth II is celebrating her 70-year reign. The festivities will kick off with the Trooping the Colour on Thursday.
{{#rendered}}Julie Montagu, Viscountess Hinchingbrooke, is speaking out about Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee -- a celebration of the Queen's 70 years on the throne.
The American viscountess recently spoke with Fox News Digital about the upcoming festivities and the excitement surrounding the four-day holiday, but also acknowledged how the Queen's engagements will be pared down due to her recent health struggles.
"We know that she hasn't been able to make all of the engagements that I think everybody expected her to make for the platinum jubilee," Montagu said. "She's kind of picking and choosing. I do think she's kind of picking the ones that she also really wants to go to."
To read more, click here .
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with their two children, have touched down in the UK Wednesday ahead of the queen's Platinum Jubilee weekend.
According to reports, the family landed in London in the evening via commercial flight from Los Angeles.
The trip will mark the first time that the queen will meet her great-granddaughter and namesake. The couple's daughter, Lilibet, will also celebrate her first birthday during the trip, on June 4.
All eyes will be on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they travel across the pond for the queen’s Platinum Jubilee.In May, a spokesperson for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle confirmed that they’ll be heading to the UK with their son Archie and daughter Lilibet for the celebrations.
The trip will mark the first time Lilibet, who was born in California a year ago, is in her father’s homeland. She will likely even celebrate her first birthday — June 4 — during the voyage.
The news came shortly after Buckingham Palace announced that only senior members of the British royal family will be seen greeting the public on the balcony as part of Trooping the Colour, the reigning monarch’s annual birthday celebration. They stepped back as senior members in 2020.
To read more, click here.
{{#rendered}}Coverage for this event has ended.