A renowned horse trainer known as the ‘horse whisperer’ who developed an unexpected bond with the late Queen has passed away, as confirmed by his family.
Monty Roberts, an American figure who shared a passion for animals with the former monarch, passed away at the age of 91. Recognized globally for his humane and gentle animal training methods, he was affectionately referred to as the Real Horse Whisperer and served as the inspiration for a popular movie and book bearing the same title.
Roberts initially connected with Queen Elizabeth II in 1989, after she expressed interest in his unique approach to horse training. This led to a personal invitation for him to meet her, along with the late Queen Mother and Prince Philip, at Windsor Castle.
Their friendship endured until the Queen’s passing in September 2022. Roberts’ daughter, Debbie, shared the news of his death on Instagram, describing him as a man of exceptional kindness, unwavering integrity, and a strong belief in the power of trust over force.
Over his more than eight-decade career, Roberts dedicated himself to revolutionizing the understanding and interaction with horses, emphasizing values like communication, patience, empathy, and respect that have impacted numerous individuals worldwide.
In a posthumous interview with the Mirror, Roberts reminisced about his close relationship with the Queen, recounting intimate moments spent together, including extended stays at Buckingham Palace. Reflecting on the Queen’s support, he revealed how she encouraged him to share his work with the world, leading to his bestselling autobiography and royal recognition.
Roberts cherished the Queen’s personal gestures of friendship even more than the honors he received, highlighting the Queen’s down-to-earth demeanor and genuine interest in his work. His poignant recollection of hearing about the Queen’s passing while tending to a horse on his farm reflects the deep bond they shared.
The horse whisperer expressed gratitude for the Queen’s friendship, underscoring the unexpected but genuine connection they forged, transcending social norms and expectations.