No matter your taste, whether it's a gripping thriller or a swoon-worthy romance, everyone has their own TV habits, including members of the royal family.
In Gyles Brandreth's new book, Elizabeth: An Intimate Portrait, the broadcaster and former politician has revealed that even Queen Elizabeth II had a TV routine she followed when she wasn't occupied with official duties or state papers.
© Getty ImagesIn fact, the late monarch kept to a structured daily schedule. Reflecting on her routine, Gyles wrote: "At 1:00 p.m., before a light lunch (she was not fussy about her food), she might treat herself to a gin and Dubonnet: equal measures, two lumps of ice and a slice of lemon. (The lemon was sliced for her.)"
The TV ritual she abandoned
However, one small scheduling change disrupted her viewing habits. When the transmission time of Channel 4's Countdown moved earlier in the day to 2:10 p.m., the Queen stopped watching it altogether.
Gyles explained: "At 2:30 p.m. she liked to walk the corgis. (When the afternoon transmission time of Channel 4's Countdown was changed, she stopped watching, she told me.)"
© Tim Graham Photo Library via GetHe added: "'I thought you preferred the racing,' I said. 'If I'm honest, I do,' she laughed. At five, she would take tea. At six o'clock the drinks tray reappeared and Her Majesty might allow herself a moderate gin and tonic.
"At 8:15 p.m. it was dinner time – 8:15 p.m. was always dinner time. The Queen was a creature of habit."
Queen Elizabeth II passed away in September 2022 at the age of 96. Following her death, many paid tribute to the monarch, while also reflecting on the shows she was believed to enjoy over the years.
Queen Elizabeth's favourite TV shows
As the monarch, Elizabeth was privy to certain privileges and reportedly received shows from the BBC that they thought she would enjoy, including Antiques Roadshow, Doctor Who and Last of the Summer Wine.
Alongside her husband, Prince Philip, Elizabeth also visited the set of Game of Thrones, where they were shown the handmade costumes and props that featured in the fantasy show. She also previously made to the fictional Albert Square for the set of EastEnders and Rovers Return for Coronation Street.
© Getty ImagesAccording to reports, the late Queen was also a fan of Downton Abbey and would "point out things they have got wrong, partly because she is familiar with Highclere Castle, where it is filmed", according to Brian Hoey, who penned At Replica Luxury Handbag With The Queen.
