A poignant gathering of notable figures from across the entertainment and literary worlds convened in central London on Friday to pay tribute to the beloved author Dame Jilly Cooper, who passed away unexpectedly in October last year at the age of 88. The memorial service saw an array of stars, including Queen Camilla, who was a longstanding friend of Cooper's, come together to celebrate her life and legacy.
A Royal and Celebrity Gathering
Queen Camilla, dressed in a stylish blue coat dress, attended the service alongside a host of well-known faces. Her presence underscored the close personal bond she shared with Cooper, whom she fondly remembered at a literary festival shortly after the author's death. The Queen recounted a humorous anecdote, quoting Cooper's memorable line: "I'm going to get so absolutely plastered tonight, darling. I love you so much, I want to see two of you." This heartfelt reminiscence highlighted the warmth and vivacity that characterised Cooper's personality.
Stars from Screen and Page
The memorial attracted a diverse group of celebrities, including actors from the Disney TV adaptation of Cooper's novel Rivals. Among them were Danny Dyer, Victoria Smurfit, and Aidan Turner, who paid their respects alongside other luminaries. Notable attendees also included Arsenal legend Tony Adams, comedian Helen Lederer, actress Lisa Maxwell, and broadcaster Clare Balding, reflecting Cooper's wide-reaching influence across different spheres.
In a touching display of affection, Cooper's literary agent, Felicity Blunt, arrived with her husband, actor Stanley Tucci, carrying a tote bag that read "I love Jilly Cooper." Tucci spoke warmly to reporters, praising Cooper as "an extraordinary person, a brilliant writer, nice person and naughty," and noting how her books had positively impacted many lives, including his wife's.
Personal Tributes and Moments
The service was marked by several emotional moments, including Queen Camilla posing with a picture of Cooper alongside the Dean of Southwark, Mark Oakley. The Queen's former husband, Andrew Parker-Bowles, and their son Tom were also in attendance, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. Other high-profile guests included actors David Tennant and Georgia Tennant, Rupert Everett, Derek Jacobi, and writers like Caitlin Moran, all of whom came to honour Cooper's contributions to literature and culture.
As the day progressed, more figures from sport and television arrived, such as broadcasters Gyles Brandreth and Clare Balding, further emphasising the broad appeal and enduring legacy of Dame Jilly Cooper. Her 1988 novel Rivals, which inspired the recent TV series, continues to resonate with audiences, making this memorial a fitting tribute to a writer who brought joy and laughter to so many.
