In an extraordinary tale from the 1980s, Queen frontman Freddie Mercury and Princess Diana teamed up for a night of incognito adventure at the Vauxhall Tavern, a famous LGBTQ+ bar in London. According to reports, including one from comedian Cleo Rocos’s autobiography, the two icons, along with Rocos and comedian Kenny Everett, concocted a plan to disguise Princess Diana as an “eccentrically dressed gay male model.”
The Ingenious Disguise
To pull off this daring escapade, Freddie Mercury, Cleo Rocos, and Kenny Everett dressed Princess Diana in an army jacket, a leather cap to hide her hair, and dark aviator sunglasses. This disguise was effective enough to blend in with the bar’s crowd, making the “most famous icon of the modern world” unrecognizable.
A Night of Excitement and Anonymity
The group’s venture to the Vauxhall Tavern was filled with exhilaration and nervous excitement. Amidst the bustling crowd, Diana and Freddie Mercury shared giggles and even ordered drinks at the bar, all while going completely unnoticed. This surreal experience was not just a thrilling outing but also a testament to the playful and adventurous spirit of both Mercury and Diana.
A Swift Exit and a Lasting Memory
After successfully avoiding detection and enjoying their time at the bar, the group made a swift exit, returning Princess Diana to Kensington Palace. The story, especially the detail of the “jolly queens” waving goodbye to their unknowing ‘queen of hearts,’ adds a charming and heartwarming twist to this incredible anecdote.
A Tale Fit for ‘The Crown’
This story, which arguably should have featured in the series “The Crown,” showcases a different side of Princess Diana and Freddie Mercury – one that reflects their willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations. It’s a moment that captures the essence of both icons, remembered for their influential roles in their respective realms and beloved for their connection to the people.