James Corden Says Queen Elizabeth II 'Was Never Political' In Touching Tribute
By Fiyin Olowokandi on September 11, 2022 at 1:00 PM EDT
Your favorite late-night show host celebrated the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away at 96.
Following the announcement of the monarch's death on Thursday, 8 September, tributes flooded various social media platforms worldwide as millions mourned her eminence's demise.
These poignant messages continued overnight with iconic TV personalities like James Corden honoring the late matriarch of the British Empire with a powerful speech.
James Corden Showers Praises On Queen Elizabeth II For Being An Incredible Leader
The unexpected loss of England's exemplary ruler broke hearts on a worldwide scale. But, none felt the pain as the monarch's people did. A good example is Corden, a London-born TV personality who rose to fame in the UK for his role in the critically acclaimed BBC sitcom "Gavin & Stacey."
The English entertainer's accomplishments eventually earned him an audience with the Queen at Buckingham Palace in 2015. There, the 44-year-old received the prestigious OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) title.
Given his position as a proud citizen of England, it made sense that "The Late Late Show" host kicked off his Emmy award-winning program on Thursday night with a heartfelt tribute to her majesty.
Following his typical modus operandi, the GV producer began the somber segment seated behind his desk. After a respectful moment of silence, a teary-eyed Corden launched into his speech.
"We, of course, heard the news today that Queen Elizabeth had passed away age 96," he began. "I, like the rest of the world, am so sad tonight but also so thankful and grateful to the queen for the most incredible service and leadership that she has shown during all of our lifetimes."
During her life and death, Queen Elizabeth II broke records as the longest British monarch to ever reign. Additionally, the 96-year-old Royal made history as the longest-running female head of state. For 70 years and 214 days, her eminence ruled over Great Britain and other Commonwealth realms from February 6, 1952, until her death.
Kings and Queens from across the world came and went with the times, but the British Empire's regal status persevered under her majesty's influence. This is why Elizabeth II remained the only female monarch people knew outside of history books.
He Described The Late Monarch As 'Immortal'
Corden shared similar thoughts on his show, noting that most people associated immortality with the Queen, believing the 96-year-old would forever remain a crucial part of their world. "She is the only queen most of us have ever known," Corden remarked. "We viewed her as immortal, an essential part of the fabric of our world."
Although the UK's entirety wept for their late ruler, the "May I Have Your Attention, Please?" author pointed out that her eminence's death received an equal outpour of love and grief across the globe.
According to the Tony Award winner, the deceased was "universally adored" for being a symbol of good. Additionally, living a life of honor, dedication to service, and the growth of others made the Queen highly respected.
In his words, "It always felt as if she was there for all of us. For 70 years, she never wavered. She was never political. She didn't need us to hear her opinions, she never gave an interview, she never posted on social media. It was never, for her, about her own PR, and maybe that's why she was as beloved and respected by a president as she was by the guy who lived down the street. And she would treat both of them equally."
The "Peter Rabbit" voice actor noted that in moments of uncertainty, the Queen served as a "guiding light" for the masses. People could always find stability in her majesty's grace and dignified leadership.
Corden's heartwarming tribute joins the hosts of heartfelt remarks several celebrities worldwide have shared in light of Her Majesty's passing. As The Blast reported, many A-listers took to social media to mourn the monarch and remember her impactful legacy.
Paris Hilton led the tribute praising the Queen for being "the original girl boss. "One of the most inspirational women. The end of an era. 👑 RIP 💔," she added. Sir Elton John, who was deeply fond of the monarch, released a statement on social media.
It read, Along with the rest of the nation, I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s passing. She was an inspiring presence to be around and led the country through some of our greatest and darkest moments with grace, decency, and a genuine caring warmth."
Elton concluded, "Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day, and I will miss her dearly."