A forthcoming biography, Dianaworld: An Obsession by Edward White, reveals a remarkable story of Princess Diana disguising herself as a man to visit London’s Royal Vauxhall Tavern, a renowned gay bar, with Queen frontman Freddie Mercury in the late 1980s.
An excerpt from People details the anecdote, highlighting Diana’s adventurous spirit and deep connection to marginalised communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ community.
Princess Diana’s trip to gay bar with Freddie Mercury resurfaces as new book details late royal’s night out in drag https://t.co/5GWNLnBLzv pic.twitter.com/p9d025S64p
— New York Post (@nypost) April 29, 2025Despite warnings about the bar’s lively atmosphere, accompanied by friends, comedy actress Cleo Rocos and radio DJ Kenny Everett, Diana insisted on joining their night out. Dressed in a camouflage army jacket, leather cap, and aviator sunglasses, she passed as an “eccentrically dressed gay male model,” Rocos recalled.
The group enjoyed one drink undetected before Diana returned to Kensington Palace, later sending Everett’s clothes back with a note expressing her delight.
Princess Diana went undercover in ‘male drag’ to sneak into gay bar with Freddie Mercury: biography https://t.co/kjpNXaSNUs pic.twitter.com/CxrSgoD67K
— Page Six (@PageSix) April 28, 2025White’s book frames the incident as a symbol of Diana’s search for authenticity beyond royal constraints, resonating with her legacy of empathy and inclusivity. The story, both heartwarming and bold, underscores her ability to forge meaningful connections, leaving a lasting impact on fans and communities.
