'Ghosts' actor recalls awkward encounter with Queen Elizabeth II during platinum jubilee concert special

In a recent revelation, actor Simon Farnaby, known for his role in the series "Ghosts," shared an amusing encounter he had with Queen Elizabeth II during the filming of the Paddington platinum jubilee concert special in June 2022. This unique encounter unfolded in a sketch that marked the commencement of the Platinum Party at the Palace concert, where the Queen demonstrated her acting skills alongside the CGI Paddington Bear, voiced by Ben Whishaw.

Farnaby, who portrayed the Paddington character Barry the Security Guard in the sketch, recounted an awkward moment with the Queen. After filming had concluded, he approached her and complimented her acting skills, saying, "Ma'am, that was fantastic – you're a very good actress." To his surprise, the Queen responded, "Well, I do it all the time."

Misinterpreting her comment, Farnaby mistakenly assumed she was referring to acting and inquired, "Ooh, you mean like playing the part of the Queen?" Her response, "I beg your pardon?" left him disconcerted. Farnaby further explained, "I thought she [meant] like it's a part, a role, and I went, 'I mean like it's a role, isn't it, the Queen, and you play it?' and she said, 'You know I am the Queen? Paddington's not real – they're actors, but I'm the Queen.'"


The Queen clarified that her remark pertained to her annual Christmas speech. Additionally, Farnaby shared an interesting tidbit about a particular line in the sketch, where the Queen tells Paddington about keeping marmalade sandwiches in her handbag. According to Farnaby, this scene required multiple takes, as her initial tone came across as too severe. He mentioned that the director asked her to be gentler, to which the Queen graciously complied, apologizing for the initial delivery.

Farnaby jokingly suggested giving up after several takes, but the director persisted in pursuit of the right tone. Eventually, the Queen delivered the line as if she were speaking to her grandchildren. The sketch concluded with Paddington wishing the Queen a "happy jubilee" and expressing gratitude "for everything."

This amusing incident provides a unique glimpse into a lighthearted moment shared by the late Queen Elizabeth II, showcasing her sense of humor and versatility as an actress during this special event.