tom cruise tribute to the queen

Queen Elizabeth II’s surprising friendship with Hollywood star Tom Cruise revealed

By Hope Coke

The late Queen Elizabeth II and actor Tom Cruise

Hey may be showbiz royalty, but it no doubt would have been exciting for Tom Cruise to grow close to an actual royal, the late Queen Elizabeth II, in the weeks before her death.

According to Roya Nikkhah, Royal Editor for the Sunday Times , the 60-year-old actor built up a friendship with the Queen during her final summer at Windsor Castle this year, before she departed her Berkshire residence for Balmoral.

Royal Family will support the Princess of Wales at service paying tribute to Her Majesty the Queen

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Cruise was among the starry names who were part of the monarch’s Jubilee festivities earlier this year, as part of A Gallop Through History : an equine-focused theatrical arena event that was staged at Windsor Castle in May, broadcast by ITV under the title The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration .

Tom Cruise arrives ahead of hosting the A Gallop Through History performance, part of the official celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee

By Isaac Bickerstaff

By Harriet Johnston

After the event, Cruise is said to have mixed with the Queen’s guests during a private drinks reception in the royal box, where he met fans and posed for photographs. The Queen herself, however, who was grappling with mobility issues in her final months, returned directly to the Castle for her comfort.

An unnamed source explained: ‘The Queen let it be known that she was really disappointed not to have met Tom at the pageant, so he was invited to have a special tour of Windsor Castle… Afterwards, just the two of them had tea together. She loved seeing him and they really hit it off, so much so that she invited him back for lunch. He was even allowed to fly in by helicopter.’ This was quite the honour given the Queen was said to dislike helicopters landing on her lawns, having reportedly been dismayed by the damage caused by then-president Donald Trump, who flew into Buckingham Palace by helicopter when he visited Buckingham Palace in 2019.

Queen Elizabeth II

Their time together reportedly included a photo op where the two posed for pictures together, and a moment when Cruise was allied to fire a ceremonial gun. The proposed lunch ultimately didn’t take place, however, as the monarch died on 8 September, before their reunion could take place.

Ahead of his appearance at the pageant in May, Cruise spoke highly of the Queen in an interview with presenters Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham, dubbing her ‘a woman that I greatly admire.’ He went on: ‘I think she is someone who has tremendous dignity and I admire her devotion. What she has accomplished has been historic. I just remember always as a kid seeing photos of her… the world knows the dignity, devotion and kindness, that is what I have always felt about her.’

The actress reigned over the red carpet

He added that he was ‘very honoured’ to be part of A Gallop Through History , in which he introduced two segments throughout the performance, dubbing it a ‘real privilege’. He stated: ‘I love the history of England, and I just have great respect for the Queen. So when they asked, I instantly said, “Yeah, it would be my honour”.’

The Prince and Princess of Wales (then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge) accompanied by actor Tom Cruise as they arrive for the Top Gun: Maverick premiere

Cruise previously met the monarch’s late husband, Prince Phlip, at a Buckingham Palace charity dinner in 2017. He recalled: ‘We were talking about pilots… and he was telling me the wonderful story of how he got the first helicopter into Buckingham Palace during [the Queen’s] coronation… I was this close to going, “I’d like to land a helicopter, if you ever need a helicopter, someone to pick you up, I think I could put it right there”.’

Cruise has been associated with other Royal Family members, too, meeting the late Diana, Princess of Wales in the ’90s – and later attending her funeral – and now enjoying a cordial relationship with today’s Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, who accompanied him to London’s Top Gun: Maverick premiere in May.

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Tom Cruise, Helen Mirren to Lead Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations on ITV

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Naman Ramachandran

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Tom Cruise , Helen Mirren , Damian Lewis and Omid Djalili will lead an A-list cast of talent celebrating Queen Elizabeth II ‘s platinum jubilee on U.K. broadcaster ITV .

The event will be broadcast live on ITV from the private grounds of Windsor Castle on May 15 and will be the first televised event to mark the occasion.

Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham will host the live ITV broadcast “The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration,” which will feature guests including Adjoa Andoh, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Ant & Dec, Joan Collins, Mo Farah, Maureen Lipman, David Jason, Alan Titchmarsh, Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Trevor McDonald, with special performances from Keala Settle, Gregory Porter, Katherine Jenkins as they pay tribute to the Queen’s 70 years of service.

A theatrical arena event will include 1300 performers and 500 horses and is made up of four acts, each overseen by a different event host – confirmed to be Tom Cruise, Damian Lewis, Adjoa Andoh and Alan Titchmarsh respectively. The celebration will take viewers on a ride through history, from the reign of Queen Elizabeth I through to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, culminating in a grand finale.

Helen Mirren, who won an Oscar playing Queen Elizabeth II in “The Queen” (2006), will take on the role of Queen Elizabeth I, whilst a cast of Queen’s Players will be introduced by a character called The Herald played by Djalili.

The Commonwealth will also be celebrated as well as the four nations within the United Kingdom. All of this will be interspersed with a number of military and equestrian displays from around the world including Azerbaijan, India, Oman, France, Norway, Switzerland and Trinidad & Tobago.

Katie Rawcliffe, head of ITV entertainment commissioning said: “We’re thrilled to be broadcasting the first televised event for the Queen’s platinum jubilee here on ITV. To mark this momentous occasion, we’ll be bringing the nation a celebratory, star-studded show, complete with show-stopping performances and an epic journey through history, told by some of the most well-renowned and respected names in film and television.”

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Tom Cruise appears in Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebration

The actor will be joined by the duke and duchess of cambridge at the uk premiere of ‘top gun: maverick’ on may 19.

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Maverick is in the building, or should we say the grounds of Windsor Castle ! Tom Cruise appeared in the Royal Windsor Horse Show’s A Gallop Through History on Sunday evening. The Top Gun actor, 59, introduced the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery during the Platinum Jubilee Celebration.

Queen Elizabeth watches granddaughter drive carriage at Royal Windsor Horse Show

. @TomCruise is in the building, sitting down for a pre-performance interview with @Schofe and @julie_etch . #PlatinumJubilee #BritBox pic.twitter.com/UIlkGMK094 — BritBoxUS (@BritBox_US) May 15, 2022

Prior to the show, the Hollywood star spoke with Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham about his admiration for Her Majesty. “I’m very honored to be here. It’s a real privilege,” Tom shared. “She’s just a woman that I greatly admire,” he said of the Queen. “I think she’s someone who has tremendous dignity and I admire her devotion. What she’s accomplished has been historic.”

Tom’s appearance at the Platinum Jubilee Celebration comes ahead of the UK premiere of Top Gun: Maverick . On Thursday, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will attend the premiere , which is being hosted by Paramount Pictures and The Film and TV Charity, at London’s Leicester Square. Prince William and Kate will be taken down the red carpet at the premiere, and introduced to stars of the film, including Tom and Miles Teller .

The Sun reported in late March that Tom had arranged a private screening of the film for the royal couple . “It’s a very unlikely movie premiere, but Tom made the offer after learning William is a fan. They happily accepted. Let’s face it, guests don’t get much more A-list!” a source told the outlet. “The rest of the cinema was shut to ensure privacy and William, Kate and a few other members of the royal family — plus a couple of very trusted friends — were the first to see it.”

“Tom welcomed them and said he hoped they’d enjoy watching it as much as he’d enjoyed making it, and left them to it,” the source added. “Apparently, it was met with royal approval — not least because William has been a military pilot himself so it’s pretty close to his heart.”

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The Queen to be entertained by Tom Cruise and Helen Mirren at her Platinum Jubilee pageant

The celebrity lineup has been announced for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration on ITV.

Next month will see a very special celebration coming to ITV as The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration airs — and there are some very famous faces joining the show to entertain Her Majesty and other members of the Royal Family. 

Hollywood royalty Tom Cruise, who'll soon be seen in Top Gun: Maverick , will be leading an all-star cast of British and international talent including Dame Helen Mirren, Damian Lewis, Omid Djalili, Adjoa Andoh, and Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber. 

Ant & Dec, Dame Joan Collins, Sir Mo Farah, Dame Maureen Lipman, Sir David Jason , Alan Titchmarsh, Dame Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Sir Trevor McDonald will also be part of the star-studded line-up.  

And if that wasn't enough, we will also be treated to special performances from Keala Settle, Gregory Porter and Katherine Jenkins as they pay tribute to The Queen’s remarkable 70 years of service.

The special live broadcast will be hosted by Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham from the private grounds of Windsor Castle on Sunday, May 15 and music will be provided by a 75-piece orchestra comprised of Tri-Service personnel and augmented with members of The National Symphony Orchestra.

As well as musical entertainment, there will also be a theatrical arena event that will see acts reflecting on key moments in history. Dame Helen Mirren will take on the role of Queen Elizabeth I, whilst a cast of "Queen’s Players" will be introduced by a character called "The Herald" played by Omid Djalili.

Katie Rawcliffe, Head of ITV Entertainment Commissioning said: "We’re thrilled to be broadcasting the first televised event for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee here on ITV. To mark this momentous occasion, we’ll be bringing the nation a celebratory, star-studded show, complete with show-stopping performances and an epic journey through history, told by some of the most well-renowned and respected names in film and television."

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The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee will be broadcast live from the private grounds of Windsor Castle on Sunday, May 15 on ITV and ITV Hub. 

Claire is Assistant Managing Editor at What To Watch and has been a journalist for over 15 years, writing about everything from soaps and TV to beauty, entertainment, and even the Royal Family. After starting her career at a soap magazine, she ended up staying for 13 years, and over that time she’s pulled pints in the Rovers Return, sung karaoke in the Emmerdale village hall, taken a stroll around Albert Square, and visited Summer Bay Surf Club in sunny Australia. 

After learning some tricks of the trade at websites Digital Spy, Entertainment Daily, and Woman & Home, Claire landed a role at What’s On TV and whattowatch.com writing about all things TV and film, with a particular love for Aussie soaps, Strictly Come Dancing and Bake Off . 

She’s interviewed everyone from June Brown — AKA Dot Cotton — to Michelle Keegan, swapped cooking tips with baking legend Mary Berry backstage at the NTAs, and danced the night away with soap stars at countless awards bashes. There’s not a lot she doesn’t know about soaps and TV and can be very handy when a soapy question comes up in a pub quiz! 

As well as all things soap-related, Claire also loves running, spa breaks, days out with her kids, and getting lost in a good book. 

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Dame Helen Mirren and Tom Cruise lead star-studded Queen's Platinum Jubilee performance

Dame Helen Mirren and Tom Cruise are set to lead an all-star cast in celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee which will see historical royal scenes acted out live from Windsor Castle.

The Hollywood A-listers are just two of a huge cast which will also include Damian Lewis, Omid Djalili, Ant and Dec and Dame Joan Collins.

Read more: Top Gun: Maverick to get royal premiere

Airing live on ITV from the grounds of Windsor Castle on 15 May, The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration will pay tribute to the monarch's 70 years of service and includes a theatrical event with 1,300 performers and 500 horses taking on four acts.

Taking viewers on a historical journey from the reign of Queen Elizabeth I up to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, it stars Mirren, who previously played Elizabeth II in 2006 film The Queen , as and covers a number of key royal moments.

Each of the four acts will get a celebrity host, who have been named as Cruise, Lewis, Adjoa Andoh and Alan Titchmarsh.

Read more: Queen gets own Barbie doll to celebrate jubilee

Meanwhile, Djalili has been cast as The Herald, a narrator who will guide viewers through the scenes included in the show which takes place over four nights from 12 May, but broadcasts live on TV on 15 May.

Presenters of the broadcast have been announced as This Morning star Phillip Schofield and newsreader Julie Etchingham, while other star names signed up for the event include Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Mo Farah, Dame Maureen Lipman, Sir David Jason, Dame Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Sir Trevor McDonald.

Music is provided by Keala Settle, Gregory Porter, Katherine Jenkins, the National Symphony Orchestra and military service personnel.

The celebration of the Queen's reign will of course include horse displays, too, with equestrian performances from Azerbaijan, India, Oman, France, Norway, Switzerland and Trinidad and Tobago all planned.

Katie Rawcliffe, head of ITV entertainment commissioning, said: "We’re thrilled to be broadcasting the first televised event for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee here on ITV.

"To mark this momentous occasion, we’ll be bringing the nation a celebratory, star-studded show, complete with show-stopping performances and an epic journey through history, told by some of the most well-renowned and respected names in film and television."

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration airs on 15 May on ITV.

Watch: Queen's 96th birthday marked by 41-gun salute in Hyde Park

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Queen receives standing ovation at Platinum Jubilee show as the nation salutes her 70 years of service

Hollywood actors tom cruise and dame helen mirren were among those honouring the monarch, article bookmarked.

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The Queen was greeted with a standing ovation from a 5,000 strong crowd on Sunday night to mark the start of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Celebrations got underway with a star-studded equestrian extravaganza featuring some of the world’s leading performers.

The 96-year-old monarch enjoyed a cast of entertainers , including Tom Cruise , Dame Helen Mirren, who appeared as the Queen, Damian Lewis and Katherine Jenkins, as part of the musical and theatrical event ‘A Gallop Through History’ closing the four-day Royal Windsor Horse Show.

The Queen clearly enjoyed the show and at its finale, when her own horses and ponies were led around the open-air arena, appeared enthralled, beaming as the animals passed the royal box.

Dame Mirren gave a heartfelt tribute to the Queen, telling the head of state: “For all these years you have carried our nation. You have been at its heart, its drumbeat. You have given us purpose and when situations have been challenging your hope, guidance and leadership have been unswerving.

“I address you on behalf of all your loyal subjects. We commend and admire the way that you carry out the affairs of state with such dexterity and poise.

“I therefore speak on behalf of a grateful nation and commonwealth when I give you our sincere and most loving thanks.”

Despite ongoing mobility issues the Queen had walked to her seat in the royal box after she was driven into the Castle Arena escorted by mounted divisions of the Household Cavalry.

She was joined by the Earl and Countess of Wessex for the show that reflected her life-long passion for horses.

A tri-service guard of honour featuring the Coldstream Guards, RAF Regiment and Royal Navy was in place for the Queen’s arrival which was signalled by the National Anthem being played by military musicians.

The Queen sat in the royal box with a blanket over her knees and a shawl around her shoulders as Omid Djalili, the event’s narrator of the journey through history, took the audience through key moments, adding his inimitable humour.

Dame Helen, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of the Queen in the film of the same name, played Queen Elizabeth I as the show began by chronicling the events of the first Elizabethan age, from the attempted invasion of the Spanish Armada to leading figures of the day like William Shakespeare.

Highlights included the Royal Cavalry of Oman who filled the arena with their display of horsemanship, which had the Queen smiling, including the sight of horses lying down on command, and the precision marching and rifle handling skills of the King’s Guard of Norway.

Performers from Azerbaijan had the crowds cheering when riders performed feats as their horses galloped, from lying on their backs to doing handstands.

At one point the Queen was spotted picking up her handbag and she reached inside for her lipstick and applied a new coat to her lips.

The unexpected appearance marked her majesty’s second public appearance in three days, after she made a surprise visit to the annual equestrian event on Friday where her horse was named supreme champion.

Djalli could not resist a joke and said to the monarch: “Thank you for choosing us over the State Opening of Parliament.”

Earlier in the week, the monarch pulled out of the ceremonial event due to ongoing mobility troubles .

Her throne remained empty while Prince Charles delivered the speech in her place.

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Queen receives standing ovation at Jubilee equestrian show

The Queen was honoured with a standing ovation as her Platinum Jubilee celebrations kicked off with a star-studded equestrian extravaganza featuring some of the world’s leading performers.

Hollywood actors Tom Cruise and Dame Helen Mirren – once again playing a Queen of England – led the cast of entertainers who appeared in the first major event marking the Queen ’s 70-year reign.

The audience rose to their feet applauding and cheering when the monarch arrived at the arena close to Windsor Castle for the musical and theatrical romp across the centuries called A Gallop through History.

Royal Windsor Horse Show 2022

The event was staged by the Royal Windsor Horse Show which has been welcoming spectators for the past three days including the monarch who spent part of her Friday touring the show grounds after earlier missing the State Opening of Parliament.

Despite ongoing mobility issues the Queen walked to her seat in the royal box after she was driven into the Castle Arena escorted by mounted divisions of the Household Cavalry.

She was joined by her son the Earl of Wessex for the show that reflected her life-long passion for horses.

A tri-service guard of honour featuring the Coldstream Guards, RAF Regiment and Royal Navy was in place for the Queen’s arrival which was signalled by the National Anthem being played by military musicians.

Among the celebrities taking part in the show were Damian Lewis, Omid Djalili and Katherine Jenkins , an all-star cast of British and international talent for Sunday’s performance which was broadcast live by ITV.

Ahead of the event Cruise was asked by the PA news agency if he was looking forward to the show, where he is expected to announce an element of the performance, and he replied “absolutely”.

Dame Helen, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of the Queen in the film of the same name, played Queen Elizabeth I as the show began by chronicling the events of the first Elizabethan age from the attempted invasion of the Spanish Armada to leading figures of the day like William Shakespeare.

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Dame helen mirren and tom cruise lead star-studded queen's platinum jubilee performance.

Dame Helen Mirren and Tom Cruise are set to lead an all-star cast in celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee which will see historical royal scenes acted out live from Windsor Castle.

The Hollywood A-listers are just two of a huge cast which will also include Damian Lewis, Omid Djalili, Ant and Dec and Dame Joan Collins.

Read more: Top Gun: Maverick to get royal premiere

Airing live on ITV from the grounds of Windsor Castle on 15 May, The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration will pay tribute to the monarch's 70 years of service and includes a theatrical event with 1,300 performers and 500 horses taking on four acts.

Taking viewers on a historical journey from the reign of Queen Elizabeth I up to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, it stars Mirren, who previously played Elizabeth II in 2006 film The Queen , as and covers a number of key royal moments.

Each of the four acts will get a celebrity host, who have been named as Cruise, Lewis, Adjoa Andoh and Alan Titchmarsh.

Read more: Queen gets own Barbie doll to celebrate jubilee

Meanwhile, Djalili has been cast as The Herald, a narrator who will guide viewers through the scenes included in the show which takes place over four nights from 12 May, but broadcasts live on TV on 15 May.

Presenters of the broadcast have been announced as This Morning star Phillip Schofield and newsreader Julie Etchingham, while other star names signed up for the event include Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Mo Farah, Dame Maureen Lipman, Sir David Jason, Dame Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Sir Trevor McDonald.

Music is provided by Keala Settle, Gregory Porter, Katherine Jenkins, the National Symphony Orchestra and military service personnel.

The celebration of the Queen's reign will of course include horse displays, too, with equestrian performances from Azerbaijan, India, Oman, France, Norway, Switzerland and Trinidad and Tobago all planned.

Katie Rawcliffe, head of ITV entertainment commissioning, said: "We’re thrilled to be broadcasting the first televised event for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee here on ITV.

"To mark this momentous occasion, we’ll be bringing the nation a celebratory, star-studded show, complete with show-stopping performances and an epic journey through history, told by some of the most well-renowned and respected names in film and television."

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration airs on 15 May on ITV.

Watch: Queen's 96th birthday marked by 41-gun salute in Hyde Park

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Tom Cruise, Helen Mirren and Bridgerton's Adjoa Andoh to lead Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebration

The stars will feature in the first televised event to mark the occasion

The event will be broadcast live on ITV from the private grounds of Windsor Castle on Sunday, 15th May, which will be the first televised event to mark the historic occasion.

This Morning 's Phillip Schofield and newsreader Julie Etchingham will present ITV's The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration, which will feature guests including Omid Djalili, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Ant & Dec, Dame Joan Collins, Sir Mo Farah, Dame Maureen Lipman, Sir David Jason, Alan Titchmarsh, Dame Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Sir Trevor McDonald.

The broadcast will also have special performances from Keala Settle, Gregory Porter, Katherine Jenkins as they pay tribute to The Queen's 70 years of service.

ITV says: "The theatrical arena event will include 1300 performers and 500 horses and is made up of four acts, each overseen by a different event host - confirmed to be Tom Cruise, Damian Lewis, Adjoa Andoh and Alan Titchmarsh respectively.

"The Celebration will take viewers on a gallop through history, from the reign of Queen Elizabeth I through to the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, culminating in a grand finale."

Dame Helen Mirren, who won an Oscar for her performance as Her Majesty in 2006's The Queen , will take on the role of Queen Elizabeth I, whilst a cast of Queen's Players' will be introduced by a character called 'The Herald' played by Omid Djalili.

The Herald will whisk viewers through time linking the acts together, narrating and anchoring the stories and making light of some of the absurdities history presents us with.

Each act will reflect on key moments in history including Elizabeth I’s Tilbury Speech and James I and the Gunpowder Plot. The Commonwealth will also be celebrated as well as the four nations within the United Kingdom. All of this will be interspersed with a number of military and equestrian displays from around the world including Azerbaijan, India, Oman, France, Norway, Switzerland and Trinidad & Tobago.

Katie Rawcliffe, Head of ITV Entertainment Commissioning said: "We’re thrilled to be broadcasting the first televised event for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee here on ITV. To mark this momentous occasion, we’ll be bringing the nation a celebratory, star-studded show, complete with show-stopping performances and an epic journey through history, told by some of the most well-renowned and respected names in film and television."

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee will be broadcast live from the private grounds of Windsor Castle on Sunday 15th May on ITV and ITV Hub.

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You can be my wingma’am: Tom Cruise’s high time with the Queen

In her final weeks at Windsor Castle, before heading to Balmoral, Queen Elizabeth was surrounded by her closest family and friends, enjoying cherished moments and memories with loved ones — but she also forged one new friendship.

The late Queen and Hollywood actor Tom Cruise met and “really hit it off” over the summer, a relationship which is said to have delighted her.

At the Queen’s request, the pair had tea for two at Windsor Castle, and got on so well that the Top Gun actor was invited back to lunch at a later date. She also gave him full VIP treatment, granting Cruise, 60, his long-held wish of landing a helicopter at a royal residence.

The meeting took place because the Queen had been

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Tom Cruise’s royal connection might put him on Queen Elizabeth II funeral guest list: expert

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Buckingham Palace voices: Queen Elizabeth made us 'proud to be British'

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LONDON – Just a few months back, the new Queen Consort Camilla celebrated her 75th birthday with a special TV documentary, magazine deal and the roar of approval from the Great British public. Yet, today, as she headed out toward the crowds of Buckingham Palace, here was a woman drenched in grief who only recently received some terrible news relating to her own family. And now her life has changed forever.

The loving support she gave our new King Charles III was evident for all to witness, but the royal show must go on. And, while we are united in grief as a nation, behind the scenes the wheels are turning fast.

Princess Anne is set for a new bigger role as Charles looks toward slimming and removing, many hope, other members of the enlarged and unworkable royals. 

The mood is one of somber sadness, of course, but many people are angry that huge sporting events and concerts and major gatherings have been canceled. The queen, you see, would not have wanted this to happen. She believed in the show going on.

WHY DEATH OF THE QUEEN WON'T REPAIR THE BROKEN RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WILLIAM AND HARRY: ROYAL EXPERT

Tom Cruise has reportedly spoken with senior members of the royal family about attending Queen Elizabeth II's funeral. (Getty)

Meghan Markle is holed up in Frogmore Cottage, where she claimed there was no room to stand. Yet she has a tough choice: face the music of the U.K. public who really dislike what she has done to the royal family or swiftly disappear back to LA.

Whatever she decides, it won’t be easy. She, along with Harry, piled on pressure to all senior members of the royal family of late, hence the reason Harry jumped ship back to London even before his father King Charles.

KING CHARLES III SAYS DEATH OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II WAS A 'MOMENT I'VE BEEN DREADING' IN MEETING WITH PM TRUSS

Royal watchers have taken note of the very first event where King Charles III held his first audience with Liz Truss at Buckingham Palace, after the prime minister hailed the queen as "one of the greatest leaders the world has ever seen."

Truss was greeted directly out of her car by Major Johnny Thompson, the man who was specially requested by the queen to sit behind Harry and Meghan at the now infamous St. Paul’s thanksgiving service to keep a swift eye on them. Given his newly found sex symbol status, it’s no surprise he was requested to perform this duty as his devotion to the queen was clearly obvious at previous events.

The Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge is seen in Windsor after the death of Queen Elizabeth II, in Windsor, Berkshire, U.K., Sept. 9, 2022. (Fox News Digital)

The bigger scale of the event is that shops, tourist attractions and royal palaces have closed today following the news of the queen's death as the country enters its period of mourning.

While plans have been drawn up to mark the 10 days following the monarch's death, many shops and attractions have made the decision to close up shop.

Selfridges, Liberty and Mulberry were among the first shops to announce they will keep their stores closed until Saturday as a mark of respect for the queen, whose death was announced yesterday.

Meanwhile, performances will continue at theaters across the country, but many will dim the lights and observe a moment of silence before opening. Some also plan to play the national anthem and open books of condolences for audiences to sign. 

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The rest of the clan await their fate as many hope that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are not welcomed back into royal life. One can only hope that William, who Charles will defer to on many serious matters of the crown, will now have the final word. After all, his next tenure is the one that will really shape the monarchy for the future.

Finally, the pictures of an ashen-faced Catherine driving in Windsor today really said it all – wife, mother and one day queen. For many, she is the sheer definition of a queen in waiting.

Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, is accompanied by actor Tom Cruise as she arrives for the U.K. premiere of the film "Top Gun: Maverick" in London May 19, 2022. (Dan Kitwood/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

I hear also that Tom Cruise has been in touch with senior royals after his spectacular stint on the world's stage at the Platinum Jubilee celebrations and, of course, the royal premiere of his box office rocket, "Top Gun: Maverick."

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Something tells me that Tom will indeed be on the guest list for the funeral of our greatest Queen Elizabeth.

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Queen Elizabeth and Tom Cruise Became Secret Friends Before Her Death

Hollywood royalty, meet British royalty.

In the weeks before her death, Queen Elizabeth, 96, proved it’s never too late to make a new friend—except her new friend was none other than Tom Cruise, who Her late Majesty “really hit it off” with over the summer, according to Page Six .

The Top Gun actor was in the U.K. as a part of the Queen ’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, but, because of ongoing mobility issues, Her late Majesty was unable to meet him at the festivities.

“The Queen let it be known that she was really disappointed to not have met Tom at the pageant, so he was invited to have a special tour of Windsor Castle with everything laid on for him,” a source says. “Afterwards, just the two of them had tea together.”

The Mission Impossible star was such a huge hit that he got to fire a ceremonial gun. “She loved seeing him and they really hit it off, so much so that she invited him back for lunch,” the source says. “He was even allowed to fly in by helicopter.”

The twosome’s friendship was set to continue on with another lunch date, but the Queen died on September 8 at Balmoral Castle before they could reunite.

In a television interview earlier this year, Cruise said of the Queen “she’s just a woman that I greatly admire. I think she is someone who has tremendous dignity and I admire her devotion. What she has accomplished has been historic.”

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Rachel Burchfield is a writer, editor, and podcaster whose primary interests are fashion and beauty, society and culture, and, most especially, the British Royal Family and other royal families around the world. She serves as Marie Claire’s Senior Celebrity and Royals Editor and has also contributed to publications like Allure, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Glamour, Harper’s Bazaar, InStyle, People, Vanity Fair, Vogue, and W, among others. Before taking on her current role with Marie Claire, Rachel served as its Weekend Editor and later Royals Editor. She is the cohost of  Podcast Royal , a show that was named a top five royal podcast by The New York Times. A voracious reader and lover of books, Rachel also hosts  I’d Rather Be Reading , which spotlights the best current nonfiction books hitting the market and interviews the authors of them. Rachel frequently appears as a media commentator, and she or her work has appeared on outlets like NBC’s Today Show, ABC’s Good Morning America, CNN, and more. 

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Tom Cruise and Helen Mirren set to host star-studded Queen's Platinum Jubilee event

It's the first-ever televised celebration to mark such an occasion.

Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee event will be hosted by Tom Cruise and Dame Helen Mirren next month.

Joining the star-studded celebration are actors Damian Lewis ( Billions ) and Omid Djalili ( The Infidel ) in what will be the first-ever televised event to mark such an occasion.

Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham will be the main hosts for the live broadcast on ITV, joined by guests: Adjoa Andoh, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Ant & Dec, Dame Joan Collins and Sir Mo Farah.

Dame Maureen Lipman, Sir David Jason, Alan Titchmarsh, Dame Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Sir Trevor McDonald will also feature throughout the historic occasion.

The event will see a theatre piece that will feature 1,300 performers and 500 horses galloping through history in four acts: from the reign of Queen Elizabeth I through to the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, culminating with a grand finale.

Each of the four acts will be overseen by a different event host including: Cruise, Lewis, Andoh and Titchmarsh.

Dame Mirren will play Queen Elizabeth I, while Djalili will introduce the cast of 'Queen's Players' as The Herald – who will lead viewers through time by linking the acts together and narrating the stories, while commenting on "absurd" moments in history.

Each act will revisit pivotal moments from the past – such as Elizabeth I's Tilbury Speech and James I and the Gunpowder Plot, and will also celebrate The Commonwealth and the UK's four nations.

Related: The Tourist 's Jamie Dornan calls out assumptions over Tom Cruise performing stunts

The theatre piece will be accompanied by various military and equestrian displays from countries around the world including: Azerbaijan, India, Oman, France, Norway, Switzerland and Trinidad & Tobago.

Musical director Debbie Wiseman will compose the 75-piece orchestra comprising Tri-Service personnel and members of The National Symphony Orchestra, with special performances from Keala Settle, Gregory Porter and Katherine Jenkins.

Katie Rawcliffe, head of ITV entertainment commissioning, said: "We're thrilled to be broadcasting the first televised event for The Queen's Platinum Jubilee here on ITV.

"To mark this momentous occasion, we'll be bringing the nation a celebratory, star-studded show, complete with show-stopping performances and an epic journey through history, told by some of the most well-renowned and respected names in film and television."

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration will air on ITV on Sunday, May 15, 2022.

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Tom Cruise on ITV The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration draws complaints after chat with Phillip Schofield

The Hollywood megastar appeared on ITV's The Queen's Platinum Jubilee

• 20:55, 15 MAY 2022

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ITV viewers were quick to complain on Sunday night as Tom Cruise sat down with Philip Schofield and Julie Etchingham for a special programme, The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration.

The epic almost three hour long event show presented by the This Morning regular is all about paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth's 70 years on the throne.

It is featuring guest spots from Helen Mirren, Damian Lewis and Alan Titchmarsh as well as performances by Katherine Jenkins and 1,300 performers with 500 horses for a spectacular showstopper.

READ MORE: Eurovision Song Contest responds to calls for 'unfair' voting system ban

But the programme got off to a fairly slow start, even with the addition of Tom Cruise on the Jubilee sofa, talking to Phil and Julie about his love of the Queen - and his upcoming Top Gun Maverick movie sequel.

Tom Cruise told Phillip Schofield about his love of the Royals and why he came onto the show. He said: “It’s a wonderful event, I’m very honoured to be here, it’s privilege. She’s a woman who I greatly admire. "What she’s accomplished has been historic. I remember always as a kid seeing photos of her. I came to England in 1982, I started producing movies here because I like the crews, the people, the history, I just have great respect so when they asked I said, it would be an honour.

“It’s wonderful. I really love the tradition and what a moment.

“Presidents, world leaders, people of all walks of life. Not just America but the world knows dignity and devotion and kindness. Someone who understands her position and held it through a history that’s been extraordinary the past 70 years.”

Then Phillip Schofield asked Tom Cruise about his upcoming Top Gear Maverick film.

And many viewers thought the moment was ill-judged, with several minutes' discussion of the Hollywood megastar's latest blockbuster on a programme about celebrating the monarch.

@Charls_25 said: "Why are we flogging top gun 2 on a program about the Queen??!! No, no, no, no NO!!!!!!! #queensjubilee" #longlivethequeen

@emmington said: "So sad to cheapen the #queensjubilee @ITV by using it as a publicity stunt for @TomCruise Very sad and disappointing. This isn't the time for advertising. Such a shame"

@Folk_lore 13 said: "Seeing Tom Cruise on the #queensjubilee is so disappointing. @LeahRemini has an amazing podcast on scientology abuse"

@Laura_naomi01 said: "Soooo...Tom Cruise is on the "QUEENS" Jubilee celebration plugging his film...that a bit wrong? #queensjubilee"

@Breezerachel said: "Watching @ITV #QueensJubilee, looks more like an interview of @TomCruise than a celebration of 70 years of the Queen on the throne, fascinating but off topic"

@Nibofthepen said: "So far we’ve had to endure Phillip Schofield, some singing kids and now Tom Crusie flogging his new film. When is this thing actually starting?"

@georgielondon said: "Not sure why Tom Cruise is on this but I'm all for the weirdness! Although disappointed he is not going to fly anything in her honour?! #queensjubilee"

But some people were still happy to see the film megastar taking part in the Queen's celebration show. After all, Tom seemed genuinely and sincerely happy to be involved.

@Blondemzungu said: "Having worked on #MissionImpossible7 last year as a supporting artist, I can confirm that @TomCruise is just as friendly & down-to-earth as he is in his #PlatinumJubilee interview just now #queensjubilee #MissionImpossibleDeadReckoning."

@Shazzermac3 said: "I don’t care if he is a Scientologist. I absolutely love Tom cruise! What a lovely, lovely man. #TomCruise"

Others were very unhappy to see Phillip Schofield yet again, just days after viewers complained to ITV about seeing his ever-present This Morning co-star Holly Willoughby fronting The Games.

@MrGlenBuchanan said: "There is now a National Shortage of TV presenters. Poor Phillip Schofield must present almost everything on ITV."

@Doveuu said: "#queensjubilee.Totally ruined before it’s started. #Schofield again.Anyone absolutely anyone other than this sycophant. Benny from Crossroads even! @ITV you need to consider your ratings I think half the country is fed up seeing his face. Certainly must be in top 10 wealthiest men"

@DameMatti said: "Please @Queen_UK please hurry and arrive, I can't take anymore of @Schofe & these pointless guests #queensjubilee"

@Gruffalo76 added: "Thought this was for the queens jubilee not a bloody self gratification of tv personalities"

@Davidknipe said: "This is like a weird episode of This Morning, The Queen clearly knows best and decided the skip the first 40mins! @ITV #queensjubilee"

@putthetelly on said: "This needed to start with a bang! Seems very like it’s just filling time doesn’t it? I’m sure that’s not the intention. Is The Queen late or not coming? #queensjubilee"

@ScheissshowUK said: "We're over half an hour in now. Is this it? A series of sycophantic interviews and pre-recorded films & clips? You've really misjudged this @ITV. It is most definitely NOT what you've been trailing for bloody weeks!"

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The Queen, 96, walks to her seat at Platinum Jubilee celebration and is all smiles as the nation salutes her 70 years of service joined by celebs including Tom Cruise amid pageantry at Windsor Castle

• The Queen has attended Royal Windsor Horse Show as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations
• All-star line up of British and international talent included Helen Mirren, Tom Cruise and Damian Lewis
• Household Cavalry Musical Ride performed choreographed routine and Gregory Porter sung 'Revival'
• Some of The Queen's horses and ponies were in the arena alongside carriages from the Royal Mews

By Kaya Terry For Mailonline and Rebecca English for the Daily Mail

Published: 15:53 EDT, 15 May 2022 | Updated: 05:31 EDT, 16 May 2022

View comments

The Queen was cheered and given a standing ovation last night as she walked to her seat at the first of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations amid a rapturous reception from the 5,000-strong crowd.

Her Majesty watched an all-star lineup including Dame Helen Mirren, Tom Cruise and Katherine Jenkins perform at the Royal Windsor Horse Show alongside equestrian, military and musical talent from all over the world.

Making her second public appearance in three days, the 96-year-old was greeted with a ovation at the event, which had been running since Thursday night, and was all smiles as she made her way to her seat in the Royal Box.

Organisers of the event at Windsor Castle, entitled A Gallop Through History, had always hoped the Queen would attend as their guest of honour. But given her recent mobility issues, nothing was confirmed until last night.

Cruise - who is in Britain promoting his new film Top Gun: Maverick and was mobbed by fans upon his arrival, was at the event in Windsor to introduce what he said was 'one of the most enthralling, thrilling, heart-in-mouth displays' as he announced a performance by The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery. 

However Cruise also faced criticism on social media for using the event to plug his new film which he spoke about during an interview with Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham at the celebratory evening. 

The Queen reached the event by car with an escort from the Household Cavalry as the national anthem was played. She handed her now familiar walking stick to a member of the greeting party as she carefully eased herself down from her Range Rover – in which she was accompanied by her youngest son, Prince Edward.

The elderly monarch smiled broadly at the welcome and had clearly dressed for the occasion in an ice-blue sequinned dress, around which she had draped a grey embellished wrap against the chill.

The Queen then carefully made her way to her seat in the Royal Box - flanked by Simon Brooks-Ward, 45, a Territorial Army officer and friend of the royals - away from the glare of the cameras.

Although footage from the Royal Box was limited during the performance, the Queen was seen laughing and smiling with other guests. Her appearance will reassure the public given widespread concern about her health. 

Hollywood A-lister Cruise said it is 'a real honour and privilege' to be a part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in Windsor. He said: 'What she has accomplished is historic. 

'She has met presidents, world leaders, people from all walks of life. Not just Americans, but the world knows the dignity, devotion and kindness, that is what I have always felt about her. Someone that understands her position and has held it through a history that's just been extraordinary the past 70 years.'

The Queen has been forced to cancel a string of engagements in recent months and last week missed the State Opening of Parliament, symbolically asking her son, Prince Charles, and grandson, Prince William, to stand in.

But royal aides insist that despite what they describe as 'episodic' mobility issues, the monarch is in good spirits and very much in charge behind the scenes.

Queen Elizabeth II departs following the A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show at Windsor Castle last night

Queen Elizabeth II meets Alan Tichmarsh and Adjoa Andoh (left) as she departs following the A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show at Windsor Castle last night

The Queen was all smiles yesterday evening as she attended the Royal Windsor Horse Show Platinum Jubilee Celebrations

Her Majesty appeared in good spirits as she watched the production that paid tribute to Her Majesty with several different productions

Queen Elizabeth II was in fits of giggles after comedian Omid Djalil made a Guy Fawkes joke during the production

Queen Elizabeth II watches the Royal Windsor Horse Show Platinum Jubilee Celebration at Windsor Castle yesterday

As Her Majesty left the event, she waved to cheering crowds and smiled as she was driven away in her car by escort 

The Queen was pictured leaving the production at the Royal Windsor Horse Show Platinum Jubilee Celebrations on Sunday

Queen Elizabeth II laughed as she watched the performance, entitled 'A Gallop Through History', as part of the official celebrations for her Platinum Jubilee

Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham hosted the much-anticipated open-air show staged close to Windsor Castle - the same location as Her Majesty's Golden Jubilee, Diamond Jubilee and 90th birthday. Pictured: The Queen appears highly amused at the theatre production yesterday evening

Queen Elizabeth II arrives for 'A Gallop Through History' Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show yesterday evening

The Queen, 96, walked to her seat with the help of her walking stick at the Platinum Jubilee celebration and smiled through the production 

The nation saluted and cheered the 96-year-old monarch exited her Range Rover wearing a glitzy grey cardigan and embellished blue dress, accessorised with black loafers and a handbag

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, arrive to watch the Royal Windsor Horse Show Platinum Jubilee Celebration in their Range Rover

Queen Elizabeth II departs following 'A Gallop Through History' Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show

Although footage from the Royal Box was limited during the performance, the Queen was seen laughing and smiling with other guests

The monarch was seen wearing a blue cardigan and a blanket placed across her knees as she watched the open-air show

There was continued applause as the Queen made her way to her seat in the royal box, whilst holding her walking stick - despite ongoing mobility problems

The 96-year-old monarch was pictured through the window of her Range Rover arriving for the A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee celebration

The Queen and Prince Edward waved to the cheering crowd as she left the event at the end of the evening

The Queen attended the event alongside her son Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, yesterday evening

The Queen looked excited as the show featured more than 1,300 performers, 600 horses, children's choirs, a 75-piece orchestra and stars from stage and screen

The Queen was pictured taking a quick break to apply fuchsia pink lipstick halfway through the performance 

Holding a blue handkerchief, the Queen pointed and smiled as the performance went on in her honour 

The Queen attended her Platinum Jubilee Celebration yesterday evening where an all-star lineup of talent including Dame Helen Mirren, Tom Cruise and Katherine Jenkins performed

Her appearance last night, following her first visit to the horse show on Friday to watch some of her beloved animals compete, will give succour to her subjects.

It also bodes well for the official weekend of jubilee events in June, when it is anticipated she will attend a Service of Thanksgiving for her remarkable 70-year reign and make her traditional appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony at Trooping the Colour.

It is unlikely she will attend many other events, however, as palace aides admit she has 'good and less good days'.

Last night's gala show, which featured more than 1,300 performers, 600 horses, children's choirs, a 75-piece orchestra and stars from stage and screen, was always going to be something the Queen would have been keen not to miss.

Different eras of British history were enacted on stage as part of the show. Dame Helen Mirren, who has played both Queen Elizabeths on TV and film, reprised her role as the Tudor monarch.

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Adjoa Andoh, who plays Lady Danbury in the Netflix period drama Bridgerton, also had a role, as did Homeland actor Damian Lewis and Doc Martin star Martin Clunes. Dame Joan Collins appeared on film to pay tribute.

But the star of the show – aside from the Queen herself – was undoubtedly Hollywood star Tom Cruise. Earlier Cruise had walked among the crowds at Windsor and said he was looking forward to the extravaganza.

In an interview with ITV, Cruise said he didn't hesitate for a second when asked to take part in the event. 'It is a wonderful event and I feel very privileged to be here. I was very honoured,' he said.

'She is just a woman I greatly admire. She is someone who has tremendous dignity. I admire her devotion and what she has accomplished is historic.'

Cruise recalled meeting Prince Philip at a charity event. He said: 'He was telling me a wonderful story about how he got the first helicopter into Buckingham Palace during the coronation. A fantastic story.'

Hollywood A-lister Tom Cruise said it is 'a real honour and privilege' to be a part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in Windsor

The Top Gun star was mobbed by fans as he arrived for A Gallop Through History performance as part of the official celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee at Home Park on May 15

Tom Cruise greets an excited fan at the Royal Windsor Horse Show near Windsor Castle earlier today 

Speaking about the monarch, Cruise said: 'What she has accomplished is historic. She has met presidents, world leaders, people from all walks of life. Not just Americans, but the world knows the dignity, devotion and kindness, that is what I have always felt about her'

Tom Cruise is mobbed by fans as he attends Day Four of The Royal Windsor Horse Show yesterday evening

Top Gun actor Tom Cruise (centre) at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in Windsor yesterday evening 

The Commonwealth and the four nations of the United Kingdom were celebrated, while military and equestrian displays from around the world including Azerbaijan, India, Oman, France, Norway, Switzerland, and Trinidad and Tobago took centre stage. Pictured: Dame Helen Mirren playing Queen Elizabeth I

Singer Katherine Jenkins described being part of the Platinum Jubilee as a 'massive honour' and said it would be an opportunity to 'show our deep gratitude' to the Queen for her decades of service.

Comedian Omid Djalili said: 'Anyone watching this show, even if they're a staunch republican or if they're a royalist, they will feel pride in being British. She is a woman I greatly admire'

There was continued applause in the stands as the Queen eased herself down to watch the ceremony, entitled A Gallop Through History, with the help of a walking stick - allaying health fears over her mobility.

The monarch wore a large grey pashmina, cardigan and embellished pastel blue dress, accessorised with pearl earrings and a matching necklace, black loafers and a handbag.

She was joined by the Earl and Countess of Wessex for the show that reflected her life-long passion for horses. A tri-service guard of honour featuring the Coldstream Guards, RAF Regiment and Royal Navy was also in place for the Queen's arrival which was signalled by the National Anthem being played by military musicians. 

Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham hosted the much-anticipated show staged close to Windsor Castle  - the same location as Her Majesty's Golden Jubilee, Diamond Jubilee and 90th birthday.

During the televised event, Prince Charles said about his mother, The Queen: '[She has always] Coped with so many different challenges and always being there in a remarkable way.' 

The ceremony was staged by the Royal Windsor Horse Show which has been welcoming spectators for the past three days including the monarch who spent part of her Friday touring the show grounds after earlier missing the State Opening of Parliament.    

Dame Helen Mirren, 76, and Tom Cruise, 59, led the theatrical production, which was broadcast open-air despite the rainy weather. 

Speaking about the late Duke of Edinburgh, Cruise added: 'I was at a charity event that I was asked to speak at, and I was talking about pilots - he was telling me a wonderful story about how he landed a helicopter in Buckingham Palace during the coronation. He's amazing.' 

Dame Helen, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of the Queen in the film of the same name, played Queen Elizabeth I as the show began by chronicling the events of the first Elizabethan age from the attempted invasion of the Spanish Armada to leading figures of the day like William Shakespeare. 

Phillip Schofield and Tom Cruise are pictured taking a selfie together at the Jubilee show in Windsor yesterday

Tom Cruise introduced what he said was 'one of the most enthralling, thrilling, heart-in-mouth displays' as he announced a performance by The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery

Damian Lewis (left), Adjoa Andoh (centre) and Tom Cruise (right) stood as the Queen departed at the end of the ceremony

Queen Elizabeth and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, watched members of The King's Troop Royal Artillery perform during the Royal Windsor Horse Show

The Queen clapped with other senior royals and smiled as she watched each performance throughout the night on Sunday 

Lady Louise Windsor during the 'A Gallop Through History' performance as part of the official celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee

Later on the evening, the ceremony paid tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh and his 'love of carriage driving' as his grand-daughter Lady Louise Windsor drove his exercise carriage around the arena  

Lady Louise Windsor rode the carriage around as the crowd applauded - as the monarch appeared to look emotional

Performers from Azerbaijan perform during the A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show

The daring performance had the crowd on tenterhooks as trained professionals held fire whilst on horses 

Top Secret Drum Corps perform during the 'A Gallop Through History' Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show

Katherine Jenkins performed at the event on Sunday night wearing a stunning floor-length blue gown

The Queen looked on as Katherine Jenkins sang for the monarch's ongoing Jubilee celebrations 

Artists in different coloured tartan skirts performed during the Royal Windsor Horse Show in celebration of Britain's Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee

The Herald, played by Omid Djalili, narrated the performance and took viewers through time with each act reflecting on key moments in history, including Elizabeth I's Tilbury Speech and James I and the Gunpowder Plot.

Adjoa Andoh, who plays Lady Danbury in the Netflix period drama Bridgerton, also had a role, as did Homeland actor Damian Lewis and Doc Martin star Martin Clunes. Dame Joan Collins and comedy duo Ant and Dec also appeared on film to pay tribute. 

The Commonwealth and the four nations of the United Kingdom were celebrated, and there was military and equestrian displays from around the world including Azerbaijan, India, Oman, France, Norway, Switzerland, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Music for the evening was provided by a 75-piece orchestra, with special performances from Keala Settle, Gregory Porter and Katherine Jenkins.

Other guests included Andrew Lloyd Webber, Ant and Dec, Dame Joan Collins and Sir David Jason who each paid tribute to the Queen's 70 years of service.

Meanwhile, The Queen appeared to enjoy Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force's steel drum display of Abba classic Dancing Queen during her Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The troupe, dressed in white suits with green helmets, played a rhythmic version of the classic disco anthem which appeared to amuse the Queen, who was wrapped in a blue shawl with a blanket laid across her.

The monarch, who is celebrating 70 years on the throne, later clapped wildly after a drum-off between the Top Secret Drum Corps, who played at her 90th birthday celebrations, and the Royal Marines.

The display included juggling and twirling of drum sticks which later were set alight.

Cruise introduced what he said was 'one of the most enthralling, thrilling, heart-in-mouth displays' as he announced a performance by The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery.

The A Gallop Through History performance as part of the official celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee

Keala Settle received cheers and applauses from the crowd as she was joined by a children's choir to perform the track Shine

The Greatest Showman's Keala Settle performs the song 'Shine' to open the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration yesterday evening 

Celebrations: Dame Helen Mirren led the star-studded cast for a theatrical television broadcast marking the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

Dame Helen Mirren dressed as Queen Elizabeth I performs during the A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee celebration 

Star: Dame Helen, who previously played the monarch in The Queen, will take on the role of Queen Elizabeth I

The Herald, played by Omid Djalili, narrated the performance and took viewers through time with each act reflecting on key moments in history, including Elizabeth I's Tilbury Speech and James I and the Gunpowder Plot

Omid Djalili performs in ITV's 'The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Celebration' TV show yesterday evening

He said: 'It takes huge courage and discipline to do what they do, galloping with guns that were fired in the battles of the First World War, weighing one-and-a-half tonnes, with no brakes. The drive demonstrates absolute trust between horse and rider.'

The crowd clapped in time to the music as an orchestra played and the horses galloped around the arena.

The Queen appeared enthralled, showing gleeful smiles as her own horses were led around the open-air arena in Windsor to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee.

TV presenter Alan Titchmarsh said: 'For 70 years there has been one constant heartbeat of this nation, and that heart belongs to Her Majesty The Queen.

'As commander and chief of the Armed Forces, head of the Commonwealth, leader of the nation we are proud to live in. We sometimes forget that our head of state is actually a person, feels as we do, enjoys the things we do, and is very much a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother as well as being our monarch.'

Later on the evening, the ceremony paid tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh and his 'love of carriage driving' as his grand-daughter Lady Louise Windsor drove his exercise carriage around the arena - as the monarch appeared to look emotional.

Titchmarsh added: 'One of Her Majesty's personal pleasures is horses and ponies in all their guises.

'One thing the Queen takes great happiness from is her family's involvement in her love, whether it be racing, eventing, showing rare breeds or just riding out in Windsor great park.' 

Cruise previously said he is looking forward to appearing in an equestrian extravaganza alongside a star-studded cast to honour the Queen's 70-year reign. He was also positive about the weather, saying it 'will be dry' for the Queen.

Singer Katherine Jenkins described being part of the Platinum Jubilee celebration called A Gallop Through History as a 'massive honour' and said it would be an opportunity to 'show our deep gratitude' to the monarch for her decades of service

Looking tanned and relaxed, Cruise strode past spectators at the Royal Windsor Horse Show, which is hosting the performance, but when spotted happily posed for selfies.

Asked if he was looking forward to the show, where he is expected to announce an element of the performance, Cruise replied 'absolutely'. 

Jazz singer Gregory Porter was also spotted making his way backstage and joked he had not met the Queen and had only 'waved' at her. 

Jenkins, who sung at the end of the show, said: 'It's so amazing to be part of today, the kick-off to the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. 

As the Queen got to her feet to leave the event, A-listers including Tom Cruise stood up to bid the monarch farewell

Crowds clapped and cheered - including Dame Helen Mirren - who has played both Queen Elizabeths on TV and film, reprised her role as the Tudor monarch

Actor Martin Clunes was also in attendance at the Queen's Jubilee celebrations yesterday evening

Pictured: Dame Joan Collins paid tribute to the Queen and her 70 years of service during the special televised event 

Comedy duo Ant and Dec spoke about their admiration for the monarch during a short televised interview 

Many A-listers including Sir David Jason and Andrew Lloyd Webber paid tribute to the monarch 

'It's a massive honour, of course, to be invited to sing for Her Majesty at any time, but I think especially for the show this evening. 

'I'm a massive fan of hers. I think she's, you know, so incredible, such a great role model and it's nice to have the opportunity to all come together and show our deep gratitude for all that she's done for the country and the Commonwealth.' 

Comedian Omid Djalili also said it is a 'real honour' to perform for Her Majesty. He said he believed the event was likely to spark pride in everyone from royalists to republicans, due to the level of admiration people have for the Queen. 

He said: 'I think anyone watching this show, even if they're a staunch republican or if they're a royalist, they will feel pride in being British. 

'And I think there's no denying, you know, especially having seen The Crown, you can't not feel affection for a woman who came on the throne and then said, 'I promise however long I live, be it long or short, that I will serve my people and serve my country' and the fact that she's done that, even when people have behaved badly all around her, she has been very steadfast and very true to her word. 

'So from a human point of view, you have to respect that - that she's done everything that she said in the last 70 years.' 

It comes after the Queen was pictured at her first public appearance since missing the State Opening of Parliament on Friday. 

Her Majesty was back on her feet and brimming with excitement as she visited the Royal Windsor Horse Show - one of her favourite events of the year - despite ongoing mobility problems.

The monarch, wearing sunglasses, pink lipstick and dressed casually in a white blouse and dark cardigan, looked in good health and spirits as she watched her horse Balmoral Leia compete at the show that marks the beginning of her official Platinum Jubilee celebrations. 

Her Majesty was clapped and cheered as she arrived in her Range Rover and wound down her window to chat animatedly to fellow festival-goers having never missed the event in the past 79 years.

The Royal Windsor Horse Show crowds looked equally thrilled to see her at the event also beloved by her husband of 73 years, Prince Philip, who died last April at the age of 99.

After missing the Queen's Speech on Tuesday on doctor's orders as she struggles to walk or stand for long periods, Her Majesty initially chose to stay in the passenger seat of her Range Rover, where she spoke to passers-by and watched horses in the parade ring.

And after an hour or so, with the aid of a stick, she walked slowly around 30ft to her seat in the grandstand between her son Prince Edward and Penny Knatchbull, Countess Mountbatten of Burma. And the Queen looked pleased as punch to be there. 

Edward's wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, was also there to support the monarch, whose highland pony won first place, securing her a trophy. Her Majesty also watched with pride as her granddaughter Lady Louise Windsor, driving the Duke of Edinburgh's carriage, led the Fell Pony Society centenary parade. 

Shortly afterwards the Queen walked unaided to her Range Rover, waving to cheering crowds as she headed back to Windsor Castle. 

The monarch was last seen in public when she attended a service commemorating the life of her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, in March with senior royals and a congregation of hundreds.

She reached her Platinum Jubilee in February, overcame a bout of Covid after testing positive that month, and celebrated her 96th birthday on April 21 privately at her Sandringham estate.

Performers dance during the Royal Windsor Horse Show in celebration of Britain's Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee

Each performance celebrated the Commonwealth and each routine was meticulously rehearsed 

Dancers paid homage to the monarch's 70-year reign during the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations yesterday evening

Singer Pritee Varsani performs during the A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee celebration

Last October, she spent a night in hospital and over the following three months was under doctors' orders to only conduct light duties so missed a number of prominent events.

The Queen has been using a walking stick in public since she attended a service marking the centenary of the Royal British Legion last October.

It came as this week the Queen dramatically pulled out of the State Opening of Parliament for the first time in 59 years because of her increasing mobility issues. Prince Charles read her speech for the first time, accompanied by Prince William, who had never attended before.

And it has been revealed that Beatrice and Edo, as well as Princess Eugenie, 32, and her husband Jack Brooskbank, along with several other royals, won't make an appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Queen's Jubilee celebrations. 

The balcony appearance, which is often seen as the centrepiece of major royal occasions, including Trooping the Colour and weddings, usually sees the Queen's extended family gather to watch a flypast and is a rare chance for fans to see the entire extended family together.

Following his ejection from public life, after settling a civil court case in America over allegations of sexual abuse against Virginia Giuffre (which he vehemently denies), it was inconceivable that Beatrice and Eugenie's father Prince Andrew would be given a spot. 

Despite earlier claims that the Queen offered Prince Harry and Meghan Markle a space on the platform, they too have been left off the list, although they quickly announced today that they will be in London for the celebrations with their two children. 

However, in paring the list down to just 16 people to avoid potential diplomatic pitfalls, the Queen has been forced to omit a number of well-liked family members including her much-loved grandchildren and their families. 

Her cousins, including Prince Michael of Kent, and their families, with whom the Queen enjoys a warm relationship are also out in the cold, with a total of at least 34 royals absent from the balcony. 

The final balcony lineup will boast the Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall; the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children; the Earl and Countess of Wessex and their children; the Princess Royal and Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence; the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester; the Duke of Kent, and Princess Alexandra.

The Queen's other adult grandchildren, Peter Philips and Zara Tindall have been excluded with their families, even though their mother Princess Anne and stepfather Sir Timothy Laurence will join the Queen.  

In a formal statement about the decision, Buckingham Palace said: 'After careful consideration, The Queen has decided this year's traditional Trooping the Colour 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.' 

There are exceptions, however. Prince Anne's husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, who is not a working royal, and the Queen's granchildren Lady Louise and James, Viscount Severn, and her great-grandchildren George, Charlotte and Louis are included.

The Palace spokesman added: 'The Cambridge and Wessex children are also expected to appear as is Sir Tim Laurence, who the Queen is happy to attend as a frequent attendee and support for the Princess Royal on official engagements.' 

The announcement follows reports that her Majesty herself may not appear on the balcony, due to the 96-year-old's limited mobility.

It is believed that aides are working on a 'plan B', with an insider saying: 'It could still happen but it is by no means guaranteed that we will see the Queen on the balcony during the Jubilee.' 

While recent balcony appearances have been more focused on senior members of the Firm, normally, there are no restrictions on which family members are present for Trooping of the Colour, the Queen's official birthday. 

The Queen looks emotional during Platinum Jubilee celebration as her granddaughter Lady Louise pays tribute to Prince Philip, driving the late Duke's carriage during moving display

By Maria Chiorando for MailOnline

The Queen was seen looking emotional at the Platinum Jubilee celebration near Windsor Castle yesterday evening, as a moving tribute was paid to Prince Philip who died last year.

Her Majesty's granddaughter Lady Louise, daughter of Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, led the tribute, driving Philip's carriage around the arena during the emotional procession at the finale of the 'Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee' event, which was staged by the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

The tribute was particularly poignant, as the Queen's 18-year-old granddaughter shares a passion for carriage driving with her beloved grandfather, who was instrumental in helping to establish it as a sport in Britain. 

Carriage driving was one of Prince Philip's favourite past-times since the 1970s, and he raced carriages near Norfolk before going on to represent Britain at several world and European championships. 

The Queen, pictured while watching 'A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee' at Windsor Castle, was seen looking tearful as her granddaughter Lady Louise drove Prince Philip's carriage around the arena during an emotional tribute to the late royal

Lady Louise (pictured, left, during the Platinum Jubilee event yesterday) is believed to have inherited her passion for carriage driving from her beloved grandfather

Carriage driving was one of Prince Philip's favourite past times, making the tribute particularly poignant, with Lady Louise driving his carriage

Since inheriting her interest in the activity from the Duke of Edinburgh, Lady Louise is regularly seen carriage driving in Windsor, and at competitive events, including last month's British Indoor Carriage Driving Championships. 

The tribute came near the end of the night's entertainment, which saw ITV hosts Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham deliver the event to the nation from an on-site studio hub from inside the grounds of Windsor Castle. 

Well known faces including Lord Lloyd Webber, Ant & Dec, Dame Joan Collins, Sir Mo Farah, Dame Maureen Lipman, Sir David Jason, Dame Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Sir Trevor McDonald will also pay tribute to the Queen's 70 years of service.

The gala featured more than 1,300 performers, 500 horses, children's choirs, a 75-piece orchestra and stars from stage and screen.

Among the entertainment was musical performances from Keala Settle, the singer and actress from The Greatest Showman film, and opera singer Katherine Jenkins.

In addition, different eras of British history were enacted onstage as part of the show. Dame Helen Mirren, who has played both Queen Elizabeths on TV and film, reprised her role as the Tudor Monarch.

Despite the emotional tribute, her Majesty was pictured looking sprightly and in good sprits throughout the evening's entertainment

The monarch is famously enamoured with equestrian events, and so many anticipated she would attend this evening's performance, which was staged by the Windsor Royal Horse Show

Meanwhile, some of the Queen's horses and ponies also took to the arena alongside carriages from the Royal Mews, led by Lady Louise driving Prince Philip's carriage. 

Prince Philip spoke about how he took up carriage driving when he stopped playing polo at the age of 50, during a May 2017 interview.

He said: 'I was looking round to see what next, I didn't know what there was available. And I suddenly thought, well, we've got horses and carriages so why don't I have a go.

'So I borrowed four horses from the stables in London, took them to Norfolk and practised and thought - why not?'

ROBERT HARDMAN: Family, military and 600 horses...what a joyous gallop through the Queen's favourite things 

When she comes to look back on the numerous events great and small in honour of the first Platinum Jubilee in British history, it's a safe bet that last night's emotional spectacular in her own back garden will be near the top of the Queen's list of happy memories.

She braved the night air for her first nocturnal engagement of the year (an outdoor one, too).

And, well past 10.30pm, she was very clearly continuing to enjoy herself enormously – receiving a thumping three cheers before heading home.

Queen Elizabeth II during the 'A Gallop Through History' performance as part of the official celebrations for her Platinum Jubilee yesterday

Queen Elizabeth II arrives for the A Gallop Through History Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show at Windsor Castle

For here in Windsor Castle's Home Park, she was treated to a fast and frantic two-hour festival of three of her favourite things: Family, Armed Forces and horses (more than 600 of them).

Billed as a 'Gallop Through History', this boisterous tableau – with a 1,300-strong cast, including several Hollywood A-listers – placed the emphasis firmly on the gallop rather than the history.

With light-hearted nods to the Spanish Armada, the Gunpowder Plot, Nelson and the Commonwealth (but not a squeak about the British Empire), this was primarily about four-legged fun and the Queen's unrivalled equestrian credentials.

At the end, however, there were two very poignant moments: The arrival of the Queen's own horses, led by Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor, her 18-year-old granddaughter, at the helm of the late Duke of Edinburgh's beloved driving carriage and drawn by two of his favourite ponies.

At times, they weren't sure which way to look – over at Hollywood stars Damian Lewis and Tom Cruise (right) narrating on one side of the arena or over at the Royal Box on the other

The Queen had attended the thrilling event alongside her son Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex

The other was the appearance of the Queen's Hollywood alter ego, Dame Helen Mirren – dressed as the monarch's Tudor forebear.

Having won an Oscar for her role as Elizabeth II in The Queen, here she completed the full set by playing Elizabeth I paying tribute to her 21st century namesake.

'For all these years you have carried our nation,' declared a full-throated Dame Helen (looking every inch the part), 'You have been at its heart, its drumbeat. You have given us purpose and when situations have been challenging your hope, guidance and leadership have been unswerving.

'I therefore speak on behalf of a grateful nation and Commonwealth when I give you our sincere and most loving thanks.'

The audience roared their approval.

Screened live on ITV, the event frequently brought the 5,000-strong crowd to its feet.

At times, they weren't sure which way to look – over at Hollywood stars Damian Lewis and Tom Cruise narrating on one side of the arena or over at the Royal Box on the other.

There was certainly no concealing the contentment on the face of the guest of honour.

As the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Steel Orchestra belted out Abba's Dancing Queen, cheers and laughter echoed from the Royal Box, and right across the park.

Here, too, was everything from a team of huskies and daredevil Azerbaijani stunt riders (pictured) to a vast Union-embracing medley of Scottish dancing

It is less than a week since the Queen missed the State Opening of Parliament for the first time in nearly 60 years due to what the Palace has called 'episodic mobility problems'.

Fortunately, she had been spared any of these last night. These two events were entirely different, of course.

A trip to Westminster to process in state, to sit before both Houses of Parliament and to deliver a speech on live television is a very different challenge from sitting under a rug with old friends and family watching the thrills and drama of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery performing their famous Musical Drive (even if she has seen it a thousand times before).

Here, too, was everything from a team of huskies and daredevil Azerbaijani acrobat riders to a vast Union-embracing medley of Scottish dancing, Welsh singing and Irish and English ponies.

Tartan twirl: Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo dancers pictured at last night's show

Besides, at the age of 96, one is fully entitled to decide on the day how one is feeling before leaving the house.

The crowds were euphoric from the start at the mere glimpse of her Range Rover on giant screens. Ovation followed ovation as she took a lift to her seat. Thunderous applause sent her home at the end.

The organisers had arranged a spot towards the rear of the Royal Box (so that Her Majesty could leave early and without a fuss if she wanted – though she certainly did not). There was also overhead heating making it all delightfully (if unroyally) snug.

Dame Helen Mirren, pictured, had  last night dressed up as Her Majesty's namesake Elizabeth I

The pageant was the rousing finale to the great event of the past few days, the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

One of the largest and most prestigious shows of its kind in Europe, it has also always had a homely feel, with plenty of Pony Club capers at one end as well as top international showjumping at the other. This is where, in a life of great honours and accolades, the Queen won her very first prize – for anything.

In the summer of 1944, shortly before D-Day, both Princess Elizabeth, then 18, and Princess Margaret, 14, competed here and came top in their respective carriage-driving classes.

Margaret drove 'Gipsy' in a utility cart while Lilibet drove 'Hans' in an open pony-chaise which had been used by Queen Victoria. The two princesses had only been carriage driving for a month and their proud parents were there to cheer them on.

For most of his life, the Duke of Edinburgh was the very active patron/president of this event, too.

Little wonder, then, that the arrival of Lady Louise, driving the duke's carriage, was such a powerful and poignant moment. As another celebrity narrator (by now we were on to Alan Titchmarsh) voiced the nation's appreciation for the late duke, one or two of those around me were in tears.

Here, too, were so many from the Queen's own stables – two of her shire horses, a pair of Irish draught horses and the Arab stallion given to her by the King of Bahrain and umpteen more.

Duty aside, if there has been one thread which has run through the life (as well as the reign) of our extraordinary Queen, it is surely horses.

What better way, then, to kick off this great Jubilee summer than by saluting her with hundreds of them?

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How Tom Cruise became a 'secret friend' of Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth and ‘Top Gun’ actor Tom Cruise ‘really hit it off’ when she invited him for tea at Windsor Castle in her final weeks. The British monarch had let the Hollywood superstar land his helicopter on her lawn and even invited him back for lunch — but she died before that could happen

In the weeks before Queen Elizabeth’s death , the late monarch had found a new pal in Hollywood star Tom Cruise, suggests a new report.

According to Page Six , she and the Top Gun actor “really hit it off” over the summer, a source told a British media outlet.

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations that marked her 70th anniversary on the throne had been attended by Cruise; however, the ailing royal was unable to meet the Mission Impossible star as she suffering from mobility issues.

“The Queen let it be known that she was really disappointed not to have met Tom at the pageant, so he was invited to have a special tour of Windsor Castle with everything laid on for him. Afterwards, just the two of them had tea together,” the source said, reported Page Six .

The visit was a success, with Cruise given the chance to fire a ceremonial gun. “She loved seeing him and they really hit it off, so much so that she invited him back for lunch. He was even allowed to fly in by helicopter,” the source added.

This newly-formed friendship could have continued with a lunch date, but it could not as Elizabeth died on 8 September at the age of 96, before they could reunite.

Cruise had spoken of his admiration for the Queen during a television interview that happened before the Platinum Jubilee’s Gallop Through History equine pageant in May.

“She’s just a woman that I greatly admire. I think she is someone who has tremendous dignity and I admire her devotion. What she has accomplished has been historic,” he said at the time, as per Page Six.

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Tom Cruise Pays Tribute To Queen Elizabeth

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The open-air performance attracted thousands of viewers from around the world.   “For Queen and Country” : Queen Elizabeth Smiles as She Watches Emotional Show Paying Tribute to Her Milestone Reign

Prince Charles May Feel Forced To Reconcile With Meghan Markle: Here’s Why!

The Royal Windsor Horse Show has been running since Thursday night and is the beginning of the planned events that will mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

The Queen was awfully touched by the grand reception she received as she smiled all the way through to her seat in the royal box. Her Majesty attended the 90-minute performance alongside the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

She was also spotted with Prince Edward on Friday, when she graced the horse racing competition after missing the opening day. One of her fell ponies was crowned the supreme champion.

Due to her mobility issues, the monarch has rarely attended in-person engagements this year, so seeing her at the event was a real thrill to royal fans.

The grand show, titled “A Gallop Through History” , featured 500 horses and 1000 performers. The Queen is known for her deep love for horses and horse-riding. Fun fact: the royal hasn’t missed the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 79 years!

Billed as a “personal tribute to our monarchy”, the production showcased more than five hundred years of British history. The entire show featured international and national military, equestrian and dance displays.

Royal Family News: Meghan Markle Slammed For Imitating Princess Diana’s Body Language https://t.co/8MqY492wjd #RoyalFamily #MeghanMarkle #PrincessDiana — SOS/CTS/HH (@SoapOperaSpy) May 17, 2022

The Royal Windsor Horse Show’s Key Appearances

Tom Cruise called the performance of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery as “one of the most enthralling, thrilling, heart-in-mouth displays”.

The Queen reportedly enjoyed the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force’s steel drum troupe performance of the rhythmic version of Abba’s hit song “Dancing Queen”.

She was also spotted clapping during a traditional presentation from the Royal Cavalry Oman, a show of horsemanship that saw horses lying down on command.

Be sure to catch up on everything happening with The Royal Family right now. Come back here often for all The Royal Family spoilers, news, and updates.

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Nmesoma Okechukwu is an avid reader/writer who loves good music in all its different forms and wonders. Due to her love and concern about nature, she has written for magazines that address the issue of climate change. She is also working on music and is looking forward to releasing all the songs she can’t help but write. Her debut book is titled Cybernetics Within Us.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Tom Cruise mobbed as he rocks up to Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration after walking through Windsor

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Tom Cruise was mobbed as he rocked up to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebration, walking through Windsor to the big event.

The Top Gun star is taking a leading role alongside the likes of Dame Helen Mirren in the celebration, which is being broadcast on ITV,

While his role has been kept under wraps, Tom, 59, made quite the entrance, wandering through Windsor and being surrounded by fans.

The star rocked a casual look, smiling away as he enjoyed the atmosphere.

Later speaking to Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham, Tom explained: ‘She’s a woman I greatly admire…What she’s accomplished has been historic.’

The evening, which is being broadcast live from Windsor Castle, will celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s 70 years on the throne.

It will also feature celeb guests including: Adjoa Andoh, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, Ant and Dec, Dame Joan Collins, Sir Mo Farah, Dame Maureen Lipman, Sir David Jason, Alan Titchmarsh, Dame Kelly Holmes, Moira Stuart and Sir Trevor McDonald.

It will feature 1300 performers and 500 horses and is made up of four acts which will be overseen by hosts Tom Cruise, Damian Lewis, Adjoa Andoh and Alan Titchmarsh.

Dame Helen will take on the role of Queen Elizabeth I, while a cast of ‘Queen’s Players’ will be introduced by a character called ‘The Herald’ played by Omid Djalili. The Herald will whisk viewers through time linking the acts together, narrating and anchoring the stories.

It will show moments from history like Elizabeth I’s Tilbury Speech and James I and the Gunpowder Plot and will celebrate the Commonwealth, as well as the four nations of the UK.

There will also be performances from Keala Settle, Gregory Porter and Katherine Jenkins.

Queen Elizabeth, who is already the longest-reigning British monarch in history,  marked 70 years on the throne in February  but the celebrations for the event will take place in June.

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Queen's special relationship with Tom Cruise and plans that were tragically ended

The late Queen and Hollywood actor Tom Cruise 'really hit it off' over the summer shortly before her death - and he had a rather peculiar role during her Platinum Jubilee celebrations

• 16:37, 8 Nov 2022
• Updated 17:24, 8 Nov 2022

They may seem like an unlikely pairing, but the late Queen had an incredible secret friendship with Hollywood actor Tom Cruise. This week, it was claimed that the monarch and the Mission Impossible actor "really hit it off" over the summer.

Cruise had a special role during Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee celebrations - and caused quite the commotion when he walked up to Windsor Castle for a horse-themed event in May titled A Gallop Through History. The actor was tasked with introducing a key moment of the evening, a performance by The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, while the smiling Queen watched on.

"It takes huge courage and discipline to do what they do, galloping with guns that were fired in the battles of the First World War, weighing one-and-a-half tonnes, with no brakes," he said,

"The drive demonstrates absolute trust between horse and rider."

Before the proceedings kicked off, the A-lister spoke to presenters Phillip Schofield and Julie Etchingham, revealing it was an "honour" to have been asked to attend.

"I was just very honoured. She's a woman I greatly admire. She has tremendous dignity and I admire her devotion. What she has accomplished has been historic," he said.

"I remember as a kid, seeing photos of her. I travelled around a lot and I came to England to make movies in 1982. I love the history and I just have great respect for her.

"When they asked I instantly said 'it would be my honour to be here'."

Cruise reportedly delighted many of the Queen's guests and posed for selfies with fans, but the late monarch was experiencing mobility problems so did not meet him.

The Queen was said to have been very disappointed not to meet Cruise, so later invited him back to have tea and a special tour of Windsor Castle.

The Top Gun star was given the full VIP treatment and completed his lifelong dream of landing a helicopter at a royal residence, according to the Sunday Times.

A source said: "Just the two of them had tea together. She loved seeing him and they really hit it off, so much so that she invited him back for lunch. He was even allowed to fly in by helicopter."

Cruise, who has previously confessed his love for England, was reportedly going to meet the Queen again for a lunch date.

Tragically, that reunion never happened because Her Majesty sadly died in September at the age of 96.

It's not just the Queen who took a liking to Tom, as he accompanied the Prince and Princess of Wales down the red carpet at the Top Gun: Maverick premiere in May.

The superstar actor was hailed as a "perfect gentleman" after royal fans spotted a sweet moment between him and Kate.

She was wearing some very high heels, which could have been an issue while navigating some stairs, but Tom kindly offered Kate his hand.

Fans took to Twitter to praise the actor, with one writing: "Tom Cruise being a perfect gentleman tonight!! Kate just stunning."

Another added: "A true fan girl moment for the Duchess of Cambridge - as Tom Cruise helps her up the steps at the Top Gun Maverick premiere, with Prince William looking super happy for his wife!"

Speaking at the premiere, Tom heaped praise on the entire royal family - and admitted he has a lot in common with William.

"I was there for her and I greatly admire her dedication to the country. They do so many wonderful things for so many people," he said.

"We have a lot in common. We loved England. The Duke and I are both aviators so we love flying."

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From Tom Cruise breakdancing to Spice Girls reuniting, reports from Victoria Beckham's bash capture imagination

Tom Cruise breakdancing, a Spice Girls reunion and tons of A-list celebrities gathering in one location have social media and the general public in awe over Victoria Beckham's 50th birthday party.

Beckham, who celebrated half a century over the weekend, posted about the luxurious soiree Sunday on Instagram.

But some of the most buzzworthy moments went intentionally unrecorded.

"I don’t think I’ve ever felt as loved as I did last night," Beckham's post said. "Thank you all for coming from near and so far!! X"

In the post, Beckham shared pictures of her with actor Eva Longoria, celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay, her husband, soccer star David Beckham and some of the couple's children.

In another Instagram post, Beckham shared a picture of her and the four other members of the English pop group, the Spice Girls.

"The best gift to be reunited!! Thank you to all my friends and family for celebrating with me. Kisses! xxx," Beckham's post about the Spice Girls said.

Guests 'absolutely dumbfounded' by Tom Cruise's dancing, reports say

Not included in either post were other famous attendees who came to celebrate with the Beckhams at Oswald’s, a private member’s club owned by Robin Birley in London's Mayfair district.

Oswald's is strict about taking photos and allowing social media within the venue , according to the club's member's privacy notice.

Actors Tom Cruise and Salma Hayek both made an appearance at Beckham's party and while one left an impression with their outfit, the other left it all on the dance floor, the Daily Mail reported.

Cruise, who turned 61 in July 2023, stunned guests when he began demonstrating "a series of breakdancing moves, culminating in splits," the outlet said.

"People were absolutely dumbfounded," one guest told the Daily Mail.

Social media reacts to Tom Cruise's 'split mania' and not receiving an invite to Victoria Beckham's party

While no photos or videos of Cruise dancing exist online, social media users continue to poke fun at the expense of the "Mission Impossible" movie star. An X user who goes by @Douggernaut_2 posted a clip of actor Mike Myers dancing in the film "Austin Powers" and said, "Tom Cruise arriving at Victoria Beckham's bday."

Several social media users hearkened back to when Cruise played the Les Grossman character in the 2008 comedy movie "Tropic Thunder." Cruise would hilariously reprise the character during the 2010 MTV Movie Awards and dance to rapper Ludacris' song "Get Back."

"Remember when Tom Cruise did this," X user @charletty_ said Monday in a post reacting to the video of Cruise's full dance routine at the awards show.

During the routine with singer and actress Jennifer Lopez, Cruise does a split on stage. X user @danilo_parks said Monday in a post, "It's real Tom Cruise does the splits mania out there today."

In addition to seeing Cruise do splits and the Spice Girls perform, guests also received goody bags full of Beckham's branded products, including a candle and a fragrance, the Telegraph reported.

All the fun has people wondering where their invite was to Beckham's birthday party, including X user @StaceyVaselaney who said, "I’m sitting here shaking my head wondering why wasn’t I invited to Victoria Beckham’s 50th birthday party."