## Debunking the Myth: Queen Elizabeth II’s Absence from the London Olympics Skydive
Despite persistent rumors and viral videos, Queen Elizabeth II did not participate in a skydive during the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics. The iconic stunt that thrilled audiences worldwide was actually performed by a stunt double, Gary Connery.
### The Origins of the Myth
The myth originated from an elaborate sequence that opened the Games on July 27, 2012. The opening ceremony featured a montage of scenes showcasing British history and culture. A key moment in the sequence depicted a figure in a pink dress and Union Jack parachute jumping from a helicopter into the Olympic stadium.
### The Staged Performance
The skydiving scene was a meticulously planned and executed stunt. Connery, a former member of the Royal Marines Parachute Display Team, was chosen for his expertise and ability to resemble the Queen. He wore a replica gown and was filmed jumping from a helicopter over Buckingham Palace.
The scene was captured using a combination of CGI and live footage. The camera angle and clever editing obscured Connery’s face, creating the illusion that the Queen herself was the one skydiving.
### Debunking the Rumor
Following the ceremony, rumors began to circulate that Queen Elizabeth II had actually performed the jump herself. However, Buckingham Palace quickly debunked these claims, confirming that the stunt was performed by a body double.
### The Real Queen’s Role
Queen Elizabeth II did attend the opening ceremony in person. She was formally introduced to the audience and declared the Games open with her traditional words, “I declare open the Games of the XXX Olympiad in London, celebrating the spirit of friendship, unity and respect.”
### Reasons for the Double
There were several reasons for using a stunt double instead of the Queen performing the skydive:
Safety: The jump was inherently dangerous, and the Queen’s safety is paramount.
Health: Queen Elizabeth II was 86 years old at the time and was not in optimal physical condition for such a strenuous activity.
Symbolism: While the skydive was a symbolic representation of adventure and risk-taking, it was not appropriate for the Queen to directly participate in such a stunt.
### Legacy of the Myth
Despite its debunking, the myth of Queen Elizabeth II skydiving during the London Olympics has persisted. It remains a popular anecdote and a testament to the creativity and spectacle that surrounded the opening ceremony. However, it is important to remember that the stunt was not a genuine event but a carefully crafted performance.