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Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
When the Rugby world travelled to Windsor Castle: How the royals' appearance on Mike Tindall's podcast 'humanised' the family
As the most famous family in Britain, it's unsurprising that the royals are habitually private people. Nevertheless, there have been some rare occurrences when the firm have allowed cameras behind the scenes to paint a more candid portrait of the family. Perhaps most notorious was the 1969 Royal Family documentary which was felt to be too revealing of the family's day-to-day activities and was later banned from being broadcast again by Queen Elizabeth II. But in the modern digital age, the family have found new ways to humanise their image often by sitting down for relaxed conversations about something they are passionate about. Indeed, the late Queen did just that for an interview with David Attenborough in 2018 where they bonded over their shared love of nature. More recently, in 2023, the Princess Royal alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales sat down for a special episode of The Good, The Bad and The Rugby. As avid rugby fans, and due to presenter Mike Tindalls' royal connection through his marriage to Anne's daughter Zara, the royals were the perfect guests for the popular podcast. And today is the couple's 14th wedding anniversary. Writing in their book about the podcast, the show's hosts - Mike, Alex Payne and James Haskell - revealed details about the very royal-themed episode. When he was introduced to Prince William, James said he was briefed on how to address members of the family beforehand. James said: 'When William finally turned up, I said, "Aah, your Royal Highness. You alright boss?" 'I quickly realised that I hadn't left enough time between "Your Royal Highness" and "you alright boss", and that his private secretary, or whatever he was thought, thought I was the scum of the earth.' After his initial royal faux pas, James praised the three royals writing that they are 'great advocates for sport' adding that the Princess Royal was 'brilliant'. 'I think the podcast humanised them a little bit, and I kind of wish they'd let us put the uncut version out, because it would have blown the public away. 'They came across as down-to-earth, fully engaged and knowledgeable,' he said. James candidly added that he thought 'they'd be dull'. During the discussion at Windsor Castle, William revealed the 'only time he's ever cried when watching a sport' was when his cousin Zara Tindall triumphed in eventing. He said: 'The only time I've ever cried when watching sport was when Zara won I think it was the European championship. 'I was down in Exmoor at the time camping. We were all huddling around the phone watching it. She was there she was blubbing away the flag was going up. I was in pieces.' Kate added: 'I can remember because you came back and said I've never been so proud of anyone.' William also discussed the important lesson he hopes his children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five, will learn while playing team sports. Talking about the skills you gain from 'those early years of playing team sport', he said: 'Learning to lose, which I think we've got to concentrate more on nowadays. 'I think people don't know how to lose well. Talking about our children particularly, I want to make sure they understand that.' It was then the turn of Kate to explain why she loved team sports, with Mike joking: 'I'm not going to say you're really competitive... [but] I've seen her play beer pong.' An animated Kate replied: 'I'm not competitive at all,' before explaining that her parents had always encouraged her to get involved in sports. She went on to say that her and William never manage to finish a game of tennis, giggling as she added it becomes a 'mental challenge between the two of us'. Princess Anne recalled the early days of her daughter's equestrian career, in which she won a silver medal at the 2012 Olympics. Recalling what would happen if she tried to offer her advice, keen horse rider Anne said: 'If I made a comment I was usually told I was a dinosaur.' Elsewhere Mike, as a member of the Royal Family, lifted the curtain on the late Queen's informal behaviour. Mike said: 'Zara and I would often watch the racing with her [the Queen] on TV. 'Lunches were also relaxed, especially up in Scotland, where lunch would often be heading out into the open space of the Scottish Highlands for a picnic.' During trips to Balmoral, the Queen is known to have enjoyed mundane household chores. According to writer and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth, Queen Elizabeth II especially loved nothing more than donning a pair of yellow marigolds and washing the dirty dishes. In his biography 'Elizabeth: An Intimate Portrait', Gyles revealed the humorous story of the time David Cameron tried to help the Queen with her favourite task during a stay at Balmoral. The former Prime Minister told Gyles: 'I'm not making this up, you sat down and Prince Philip and Her Majesty The Queen served your dinner and cleared it away and washed it up while you sat talking with the other guests. 'I remember thinking it was sort of year five, I thought: "Well, I now surely can help" and got up and got on the Marigolds and started doing the washing-up. 'And I remember Her Majesty saying: "What on earth is the Prime Minister doing?" I'd broken with the protocol and rapidly sat back down and did what I was told.' In another instance, a former royal courtier told author Harry Mount about the time Elizabeth helped tidy up after a shooting lunch. The source said: 'I was once at a shooting lunch. At the end of lunch, I heard someone say, "I'll do the washing-up". 'I turned around and there was the Queen in her yellow washing-up gloves.' According to former royal butler Paul Burrell, Elizabeth II started washing up once in front of then-Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher after a picnic. As a staunch monarchist, Thatcher was adamant that the monarch should not be cleaning kitchenware. But Paul claims a compromise was found when Elizabeth told Thatcher: "Well I'll wash, will you dry?"' Gyles claims that Elizabeth's love of washing up started at a young age. 'Of course those of you who have read the wartime diaries of the Queen's childhood friend, Alathea Fitzalan-Howard, will know that Lilibet was always good at domestic chores.
Wales Online
17-06-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Tonight's rugby news as Alun Wyn Jones picks out unlucky Wales duo and Welsh players put through brutal sessions
Tonight's rugby news as Alun Wyn Jones picks out unlucky Wales duo and Welsh players put through brutal sessions The latest headlines from Wales and around the world Former Wales skipper Alun Wyn Jones (Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd ) These are your evening rugby headlines on Tuesday, June 17 Alun Wyn Jones identifies two unlucky Wales stars Wales legend Alun Wyn Jones has identified the two Welsh internationals he believes were unlucky to miss out on being selected for the British & Irish Lions by Andy Farrell. The former lock appeared as a guest on the latest episode of The Good, The Bad and The Rugby when he was asked about Wales' representation on tour, which is the lowest in over 90 years with just Tomos Williams and Jac Morgan flying the flag Down Under. However, Jones believes that two other Welsh internationals were unlucky not to be included by Farrell, who selected a team dominated by Ireland and England stars. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. "Toby (Taulupe Faletau) has come back into a little bit of form, on the experience side of things," he said. "I should imagine he was in the conversation, I could be completely wrong. "Blair Murray, you look at the way he's played in those last two or three games for Wales, and he's shown it for the Scarlets, when he gets it right, he's actually unplayable. Despite his stature, he is still good in the air, beating defenders, so I definitely thought those two would have been in there." Asked for his thoughts on the low number of Welshmen involved, the former Wales skipper added: "It is a sort of benchmark for where Welsh rugby is. It's the lowest representation since inception. But I'm pleased for Jac and Tom to be flying the flag. Article continues below "Jac has been Mr. Consistent domestically and internationally. Tom is [the Gallagher Premiership] player of the season. I think it shows how well Jac is playing when your domestic team is going all right but your international team is struggling. "It shows how well he is playing amongst the mire, to get selected and rightly so. Tom hopefully can carry on in a similar vein. "I'm just excited to see how they come back after the tour - what they've learned, the people they've been around, the experience - because going on tour grows you," he continued. "You learn off people, you know a little bit more about them when you're coming up against them, so I'm excited to see what they learn and hopefully they can get a Test spot on the way." Welsh players put through brutal sessions Wales Women head coach Sean Lynn is putting his side through a brutal pre-season as he looks to turn things around in time for the Women's Rugby World Cup in England later this summer. The former Gloucester-Hartpury boss made no secret of the fact that he thought his players were lacking the required fitness as they slumped to a winless Women's Six Nations campaign and a second successive tournament wooden spoon earlier this year. After a disappointing first campaign in charge of the national team, Lynn vowed to change things up and push his players hard, and he is delivering on his promises ahead of Wales' two-Test tour to Australia next month, which comes just weeks before the start of their World Cup campaign. The head coach's extended training squad have put through their paces since reporting for testing at the start of the month, with the infamous bronco run fitness test among the sessions they have undertaken. Last week, they also had their fitness tested on Wales' largest sand dune at Merthyr Mawr, in a bid to make them able to handle the brand of rugby that Lynn has planned for them. "We came in on day one looking at the bronco testing, it's what our lead S&C wanted to measure us on," the head coach told the BBC. "It's really exciting because one of our young pathway players absolutely smashed it, and came top of the forwards league table which is really pleasing to see." "When you're in these tough situations, it's about making sure that we're all in it together," he added. "It's a combination of making sure that we are digging in deep and working hard for each other. We want to be a hard team to beat." While the training has been tough, it has been beneficial to the squad, with back rower Chiara Pearce - who has come into the squad from Wales U18s - admitting: "It's been challenging physically and mentally, but it's a great feeling training with all the big guns, because you see them on telly. "I feel confident in everything I'm doing, just because he [Lynn] is on my back saying 'you can do it, just believe in yourself, we're all here together and we're all helping you'." Farrell: I have no regrets By PA Sport Staff Owen Farrell insists he has no regrets from his time in France despite leaving Racing 92 after just one season to return to former club Saracens. The former England captain had called time on his 16-year stay with the Gallagher Premiership side at the end of last season, having made more than 250 appearances. However, the 33-year-old fly-half endured a disappointing, injury-disrupted campaign with the Top 14 outfit, and has rejoined Saracens on a two-year deal, returning to the club where he won three European Cups and six Premiership crowns. 'I don't regret going. I don't regret doing it,' Farrell said on Sky Sports. 'Even though it was disappointing how much I played, and how fit I was when I did play at times, I still don't regret doing it. 'Even though it was disappointing, the season that we had and the injuries that came with that, I still don't see it as a negative that I have come through it'. Farrell added: 'I am obviously disappointed that it went the way it went, but I am glad we did it and thankful for the experience. 'It was a difficult year injury wise, then trying to bed into a new place and not feeling like you are able to able to give the best of yourself and not really getting going. 'All the years are precious now and hopefully the best for everyone was that I was here next year. Article continues below Farrell, who made his Saracens debut in 2008, just 11 days after his 17th birthday, has won 112 England caps and made six Test appearances for the British and Irish Lions. The fly-half, though, has not been included in the squad – coached by his father Andy – for this summer's tour of Australia. Farrell has not played Test rugby since the 2023 World Cup, initially taking a break to prioritise his mental wellbeing, before his move abroad made him ineligible for selection.
Wales Online
31-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
England international James Haskell announces heartbreaking news as he's flooded with support
England international James Haskell announces heartbreaking news as he's flooded with support James Haskell revealed sad news on his social media channels and was flooded with support from the game of rugby James Haskell said his dad was "an amazing husband, a loving father, and a man who would help anyone in need." (Image: James Haskell on Instagram ) Former England international James Haskell has announced the tragic passing of his father, adding that he is finding comfort in knowing his dad is now at peace. Taking to Instagram, Haskell revealed the news with a collection of photos and a fitting tribute to his dad. The rugby family flooded the comments, with the likes of Mike Brown, Danny Care and Ugo Monye offering their condolences. Haskell branded his father's humour as "legendary" and recognised the unwavering support of his rugby career. In Haskell's post, he included some touching photos to remember his dad, which included his wedding day and multiple family photos from years gone by. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby. "This is never an easy thing to write," began Haskell. "My dad has passed away and while it's unbearably sad, it's also a celebration of an incredible man. He had more energy, more wit, and more heart than anyone I've ever known. "He made me who I am. He supported me at every game, pushed me to be better, and loved me unconditionally. "He didn't always get it right but he always gave his best, and his work ethic was second to none. "He was an amazing husband, a loving father, and a man who would help anyone in need. His humour was legendary. His presence filled every room. "In the end, he was in a bad way, and though it's heartbreaking to say goodbye, there's comfort in knowing he's now at peace. "He leaves behind a huge hole in our lives especially for my mum and brother but we will hold onto the memories that made him who he was. "I love you, Dad. I know you loved me and I know you were proud of me. You kept everything I ever did, framed it, treasured it and I'll never forget that. I'll think of you every single day. Always. "You lived your life and always did it your way!" Content cannot be displayed without consent Haskell retired from rugby in 2019 and has since forged a successful post-playing career. Alongside Alex Payne and Mike Tindall, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby has become one of the most popular rugby podcasts in the world, going on multiple tours in recent years. Article continues below Alongside that, he's written a plethora of books and is also an accomplished house music DJ and producer.
Daily Record
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Zara Tindall speaks out on 'struggles' in Royal Family after Prince Harry plea
Zara Tindall has opened up about the challenges the Royal Family faces, just days after her cousin Prince Harry begged for a reconciliation with King Charles and Prince William. Prince Harry, who has grown distant from King Charles and Prince William following several public criticisms through his memoir, interviews, and television appearances, has an estranged cousin in Zara, who has offered some thoughts on the tumult within the palace walls. Speaking at a London Sporting Club lunch last week, Princess Anne's 43-year-old daughter broached the subject of what royals endure, as reported in The Sun. "It is very hard to see from the outside but, 100-per cent, it is a family that is still going through the same struggles other people do," she said. "Whether they are relationships, obviously it is very easy to see every day. We're still very supportive of each other." Zara used to enjoy a close relationship with Harry – however, his continual public outbursts have strained many familial ties. Nonetheless, Zara and her family maintain a robust bond with the Wales clan, highlighted by Mike Tindall's endearing 'brotherly relationship' with Prince William, reports the Mirror. Royal commentator Dickie Arbiter, who previously served as a Palace press secretary, attributes the close bond between Mike Tindall and Prince William to their similar dispositions. "Mike is a pretty straight guy," he explained to the Telegraph. "He's down to earth, and William is too... They are two peas from the same pod, they've just had different upbringings. We've seen [this] time and again in William and Mike's interactions. They are a proper family. They're not playing at it," he remarked. Mike also shares a great rapport with Princess Kate, having welcomed her and William on his podcast, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby. Both families relish spending quality time together, often accompanied by their young children. Mike, a father of three himself, has formed an endearing relationship with George, Charlotte, and Louis. His playful nature was on display when he gestured 'I'm watching you' to Prince Louis during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, and he was seen warmly draping an arm around George on Christmas Day 2023, while his daughter Mia held hands with a smiling Louis. It comes after Prince Harry came under fire for giving an explosive interview to the BBC after losing his legal bid to have his UK police protection reinstated. He said that there had been "so many disagreements" in the family, but the "only thing that's left" is the row over his security - which he said had "always been the sticking point". "There is no point in continuing to fight anymore, life is precious," he added. Harry also commented on the health of King Charles, which has drawn heavy criticism. The 76-year-old monarch is currently receiving cancer treatment. Harry said: "I don't know how much longer my father has - he won't speak to me because of this security stuff but it would be nice to reconcile." He added "some members of my family will never forgive me" for the publication of his memoir 'Spare', and added: "It would be nice to have that reconciliation part now. If they don't want that, that's entirely up to them."
Edinburgh Live
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Zara Tindall speaks out on 'struggles' as she appears to take 'swipe' at Harry
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Just days after Prince Harry delivered another explosive interview, his cousin Zara Tindall has come forward to discuss the 'struggles' that impact the Royal family. Harry, who has become increasingly distant from King Charles and Prince William due to a series of revealing criticisms in his book, interviews, and television appearances, is now seeing family members like Zara share their perspectives on the ongoing turmoil. During her appearance at a London Sporting Club lunch last week, Zara, the 43-year-old daughter of Princess Anne, touched upon the challenges of Royal life and how it's perceived by the public. As The Sun reports, Zara commented, "It is very hard to see from the outside but, 100 per cent, it is a family that is still going through the same struggles other people do," she noted. "Whether they are relationships, obviously it is very easy to see every day. We're still very supportive of each other." The relationship between Zara and Harry, which was once close-knit, has suffered due to Harry's continuous public airing of familial grievances, severing many of his Royal ties. Nonetheless, Zara and her family maintain a strong connection with the Wales family, with Mike Tindall notably forging a sincere 'brotherly relationship' with Prince William, reports the Mirror. Royal expert Dickie Arbiter, who previously served as a Palace press secretary, has shed light on the close bond between Mike Tindall and Prince William, attributing it to their kindred spirits. "Mike is a pretty straight guy," he shared with the Telegraph. "He's down to earth, and William is too... They are two peas from the same pod, they've just had different upbringings. We've seen [this] time and again in William and Mike's interactions. They are a proper family. They're not playing at it," he observed. Mike also shares a great rapport with Princess Kate, having welcomed her and William on his podcast, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby. The two families relish spending quality time together, especially with their young children. Mike, a doting father of three himself, has formed an endearing relationship with George, Charlotte, and Louis. His playful nature was on display when he gestured 'I'm watching you' to Prince Louis during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. On Christmas Day 2023, he was seen warmly placing an arm around George while his daughter Mia held hands with a smiling Louis. This comes in the wake of Prince Harry facing criticism for a controversial interview with the BBC following his unsuccessful legal challenge to have his UK police protection restored. He mentioned that despite "so many disagreements" within the family, the ongoing dispute over his security remains the sole unresolved issue, describing it as "always been the sticking point". "There is no point in continuing to fight anymore, life is precious," he further remarked. Harry also commented on the health of King Charles – a topic for which he has faced considerable backlash. The 76 year old monarch is currently receiving cancer treatment. Regarding his relationship with his father, Harry stated: "I don't know how much longer my father has - he won't speak to me because of this security stuff but it would be nice to reconcile." Harry disclosed that "some members of my family will never forgive me" for penning his tell-all book Spare, and expressed his hopes for familial healing by adding: "It would be nice to have that reconciliation part now. If they don't want that, that's entirely up to them."
