Renowned as the ‘horse whisperer,’ a revered American horse trainer, Monty Roberts, who formed an unexpected bond with the late Queen, has passed away at the age of 91. His family confirmed this sad news, expressing their emotions through a heartfelt tribute on social media.
Monty Roberts gained global admiration for his gentle and humane methods in animal training, earning him the moniker the Real Horse Whisperer. His impactful approach inspired both a movie and a book by the same name, featuring Robert Redford. The former monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, first encountered Roberts in 1989, fascinated by his innovative horse training techniques. This initial connection led to a lasting friendship, including meetings at Windsor Castle with the late Queen Mother and Prince Philip.
Upon his passing, Monty Roberts’ daughter, Debbie, shared a touching message on Instagram, highlighting his exceptional qualities of compassion, integrity, and belief in the power of trust over force. Roberts dedicated over eight decades to revolutionizing horse-human relationships, emphasizing values like communication, patience, empathy, and respect as essential in leadership.
Reflecting on his close relationship with the late Queen, Roberts recounted intimate moments, such as leisurely lunches at royal palaces and extended stays at Buckingham Palace, where the Queen treated him like family. Following a royal directive in 1996 to share his wisdom with the world, Roberts authored the best-selling autobiography, “The Man Who Listens to Horses,” recognized in 41 countries. The Queen’s appreciation for his work was further acknowledged by appointing him a member of the Royal Victorian Order in 2011.
Despite the accolades and honors received, Roberts cherished the personal gestures of friendship from the Queen even more than formal recognitions. He fondly recalled instances where the Queen prioritized their conversations, demonstrating genuine care and interest in his work. Roberts vividly remembered the moment he learned of the Queen’s passing while working with horses on his farm, a memory etched in his heart forever.
In his own words, Roberts acknowledged the Queen’s unexpected fondness for his company, emphasizing the genuine connection they shared beyond their differing backgrounds. His legacy as a pioneer in animal communication and humane training methods will continue to impact countless lives worldwide.
