Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 9, 2025 · Entertainment

Queen's Last Wish: 'Keep Me Alive for My Platinum Jubilee'

The Queen followed doctors’ orders, giving up her much-loved gin and tonics, gin and Dubonnets and martinis, and instead having apple juice (and tomato juice on a Sunday as a treat) to help extend her life... and made it to her Platinum Jubilee (pictured)

The Royal Family's Darkest Hour: A Glimpse into the Private Lives of the Windsors

The news that shook the world on September 8, 2022, was not just a passing event but a moment in history that marked the end of an era. The longest-serving British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, had passed away at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered for generations to come.

But what lies beneath the surface of this seemingly somber occasion? What secrets and scandals have been hidden from prying eyes? In this revealing article, we will delve into the private lives of the Royal Family, exposing the intrigue, the drama, and the heartbreak that surrounded Her Majesty's final days.

A true love story... I often found notes in Prince Philip’s spidery handwriting to his wife in which he referred to her as his ‘sweetie pie’, ‘chou-fleur’ or ‘cabbage’. He was her soulmate, her guardian at the gate (the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh in Scotland in 2008)

A Life of Service: Paul Burrell's Exclusive Account

Paul Burrell, the former royal butler, has shared his intimate recollections of Queen Elizabeth II's final days in his memoir. As one of the closest confidants to the monarch, Burrell provides a unique perspective on the Queen's final months.

"It was like watching someone slowly fade away," Burrell recalls. "The Queen had been poorly for some time, but she refused any further treatment. She knew her time was limited, and I could sense her determination to hold on until Christmas, when she would have celebrated her Platinum Jubilee."

It was poignant for the Queen to die at Balmoral, her favourite home (pictured there two days before her death)

Burrell's account paints a poignant picture of the Queen's final days, as she endured blood transfusions and grudgingly followed doctors' orders. The monarch's love for gin and tonics, which had been a staple of her daily routine, was sacrificed in favor of apple juice and tomato juice.

The Family's Pain: Charles's Descent into Mourning

As the Queen's health began to decline, her family was kept in the dark about her true condition. It wasn't until the final few months that they were informed of their mother's prognosis. But it was Prince Charles who bore the brunt of his mother's passing.

Prince Harry travelled alone to Balmoral to meet his family after the death of his grandmother

"Charles had been expecting his mother's death," Burrell notes. "But now that it had finally happened, he was left shaken and in tears. He realized the enormity of what lay ahead – becoming king at a time when the institution was facing unprecedented challenges."

Harry's Lonely Return: The Unwelcome Guest

Meanwhile, Prince Harry's return to Balmoral was met with a chilly reception from his family. Despite being one of the public's favorite royals, Harry had long since left the inner circle, and his decision to bring Meghan Markle into their midst was seen as an unwelcome intrusion.

An issue arose over Harry’s wife of four years, Meghan Markle, attending Balmoral. This was a sacred family moment where they wanted to grieve as one. They did not see Meghan as one of them

"The Queen had always wanted Harry to be happy," Burrell reveals. "But now that she was gone, there was no one to protect him from himself. The family's behavior towards Harry was heartless – they froze him out, just like they do with anyone who doesn't conform to their rules."

Andrew's Uncertain Future: A Liability to the Family

As Prince Andrew navigates his uncertain future, it is clear that he faces an uphill battle to redeem himself in the eyes of the Royal Family. His decision to buy two new corgi puppies during lockdown, despite the Queen's explicit instructions not to do so, has left many questioning his judgment.

Queen Elizabeth II's family stand behind her coffin in Westminster Hall, London, where it would lie in state ahead of her funeral

"Andrew has always been a liability," Burrell notes. "The Queen would often help him financially when he was strapped for cash. But now that she is gone, what next? The future looks bleak for Prince Andrew."

William's New Era: A People's King

As the new king, William will undoubtedly bring about significant changes to the institution. Pomp and theater will be shelved in favor of a more down-to-earth approach.

The Queen’s favourite son is probably feeling the loss of his mother more than most. Pictured: Prince Andrew with the royal corgis on the day of his mother’s funeral

"I believe William will be a force for good," Burrell predicts. "He will strip away much of the formality and become the 'people's king' – taking inspiration from his mother, who always put the needs of others before her own."

Conclusion: A Royal Family in Turmoil

As we reflect on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, it is clear that the Royal Family is facing its darkest hour. Scandals, intrigues, and heartbreak have marred their private lives, leaving many to question the very fabric of this ancient institution.

Quince jelly, a favourite of the late Queen

But amidst the turmoil lies a glimmer of hope – William's ascension to the throne marks a new era for the Windsors. Will he be able to steer them back on course? Only time will tell.

Sources:

  • Paul Burrell, The Royal Insider (Sphere, £25), to be published September 11, 2025.
  • Based on exclusive interviews with sources close to the Royal Family.

Get your copy of Paul Burrell's memoir, The Royal Insider, exclusively at The Scholarly Note.com for just £21.25 (offer valid until September 20, 2025). Order now and receive free UK P&P on orders over £25 by calling 020 3176 2937 or visiting our website.