“She Actually Did Jump From That Helicopter”: Late Queen Elizabeth II’s Iconic Skydiving Entry at London Olympics Finally Decoded

Sep 21, 2022 | 7:15 AM EDT

Link Copied!

The world is slowly coming to terms with the demise of the longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. She sadly passed away on the 8th of September, 2022. And it was due to sickness and senility. Her rule of 70 years finally ended with the coronation of King Charles III, her son. As she was transported to her final resting place on the 19th of September, the world couldn’t help but remember her glorious life in fondness.

But, even in times of dark grief, moments of a brighter past come to bring a smile. A similar thing happened. As her casket was lowered in the Westminster Abbey, fans and mourners all around the globe were reminded of Queen’s humor and playfulness. There is the buzz coming back about the 2012 Olympics when Daniel Craig escorted The Queen.

The real trick behind the queen’s helicopter jump

Article continues below this ad

On the opening day entry scene of her majesty The Queen, a short skit was prepared. According to that, her secret service agent, 007 James Bond, would escort her. And this was followed by Daniel Craig leading her to the helicopter. But, unlike popular belief, it was not Queen Elizabeth II who gave the shot of descending in a harness. Talking about it, Sebastian Coe (chairman of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games) filled in, “A whole heap of people still believe that she actually did jump from that helicopter, genuinely.”

But Coe cleared the confusion, saying it was a stunt double, Gary Connery, who did the shot. He was decked in a gown, a wig, with makeup to pull this thing off. But, even though that part was fabricated, the monarch did the rest of it. And Coe said how accommodating she was. “It will always be the iconic moment from the ceremony.” He reminisced.

ALSO, READ THIS: LPGA Legend Recalls ‘Extravagant’ Meeting With the Late Queen Elizabeth II

Life of Queen Elizabeth II

Born in 1926, she took over the throne in 1953 following her father’s demise. She was back then a queen reagent of around 53 colonies, 15 still under her rule at the time of her death.

Article continues below this ad

As the country and world says goodbye, ma’am can I say thank you for allowing a fourteen year old boy to fulfil his dream of meeting, working and dancing with Queen Elizabeth II. #DreamsComeTrue pic.twitter.com/2RB337h94O
— The Royal Butler (@TheRoyalButler) September 19, 2022

Expand Tweet

Her majesty aided her armies during World War II by serving as a mechanic. It marked the first royal female to take up an army-related post. She was also greatly appreciative of sports and had a medallion for the young achievers of Britain.

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THIS STORY: Queen Elizabeth II Went Against Her Family To Make A Grand Entry At The 2012 London Olympics With James Bond

And, circling back, as The Queen enters her chamber of eternal slumber, she will be remembered by the citizens and her followers for a long time.