In an emotional revelation, Peter Phillips has opened up about a deeply painful moment during the COVID-19 pandemic—when he was unable to comfort his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, after the death of Prince Philip.
The candid confession came in the documentary Queen Elizabeth II: Her Story, Our Century, released to mark what would have been the late monarch’s 100th birthday.
“All You Wanted to Do Was Give Her a Hug”
Recalling the period following Prince Philip’s death in April 2021, Phillips shared the emotional toll of strict pandemic restrictions.
The Duke of Sussex Mr. Peter Phillips, Duke of Cambridge, The Earl of Snowdon, , Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence
Personal Protection Officer, and Private Secretary
Pool Picture: Arthur Edwards, The Sun
“All you wanted to do was give her a hug, and you couldn’t do it,” he said, capturing a moment many families around the world experienced during lockdowns.
A Grandson Close to the Queen
As the son of Princess Anne, Phillips has long been known as one of the Queen’s closest grandchildren. Over the years, he often spoke about their strong bond, describing her as a constant source of inspiration in his life.
Their relationship made the inability to offer comfort during such a devastating time even more difficult.
The Image That Defined a Pandemic
Prince Philip’s funeral, held at St George’s Chapel in April 2021, remains one of the most poignant moments of the pandemic era.
The image of Queen Elizabeth II sitting alone in the pews—masked and distanced—became a global symbol of grief and isolation.
Due to COVID-19 regulations, only 30 mourners were allowed to attend, with limited music and strict distancing measures in place.
A Final Family Memory
Phillips also reflected on the Queen’s final days before her passing in September 2022. He shared that he felt fortunate to have been in Scotland for one of their last family gatherings, describing it as “a proper family moment.”
A Lasting Legacy of Strength
Often described as Prince Philip’s “strength and stay” throughout their 73-year marriage, Queen Elizabeth II demonstrated remarkable resilience during one of the most isolating periods in modern history.
Phillips’ recollection offers a rare, personal glimpse into the human side of the royal family—reminding many of the shared grief experienced during the pandemic.
