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Royal Row: Elizabeth & Philip's Fiery Fights Revealed
27 Jan
Summary
- Prince Philip once called the Queen a 'bloody fool'.
- Queen Elizabeth I could freeze people with an icy stare.
- Philip once dressed as a guard to prank the Queen.
Behind the stoic public image, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's marriage endured numerous fiery exchanges and temper tantrums. Royal author Robert Jobson detailed an incident in 1954 where Prince Philip threw a tennis racket and shoes in Australia, only for the Queen to drag him back inside and smooth over the situation for cameras.
Royal expert Ian Pelham Turner noted that outbursts were not uncommon, with Elizabeth once throwing a tennis racket and a shoe at Philip's head. Philip was known to call the Queen a 'bloody fool,' and Elizabeth could respond with an icy stare or sharp retorts, such as telling him to 'behave.'
Despite these conflicts, humor played a significant role in their union. One anecdote recounts Philip disguising himself as a Grenadier Guard in 2003 to prank the Queen, making her giggle like a schoolgirl. His pet name for her, 'Cabbage,' also showcased their playful dynamic.
Their commitment to the Crown and each other remained steadfast, even as Philip sacrificed his naval career to become consort. Elizabeth famously credited Philip as her 'strength and stay,' acknowledging a debt to him that the world might never fully know.
