Biography Season 2 Episode 61 Prince Philip: a Step Behind the Queen
- November 5, 1990
Prince Philip: A Step Behind the Queen is an episode of Biography's second season that explores the life and legacy of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. The episode delves deep into the royal journey of Prince Philip and brings forth his notable accomplishments, highlighting his significant contributions to public service, education, and the arts.
Viewers will get an intimate look at his early life and how he met the love of his life, Queen Elizabeth II. The episode traces his naval career and how he had to leave his ambitions behind to support his wife's duties as the Queen. Viewers will discover how his life changed when the Queen ascended to the throne, and Prince Philip became the longest-serving consort in British history.
The episode explores Prince Philip's vast contributions to the royal family and to the United Kingdom as a whole. His decision to give up his career and focus on supporting his wife on the throne is outlined, and viewers will understand how this support translated into real work. Prince Philip founded the Duke of Edinburgh Award, which has helped countless young people learn new skills, find confidence and purpose, and develop a sense of individual responsibility. The show explores how this initiative has left a lasting legacy and how Prince Philip was an advocate for youth for most of his lifetime.
Moreover, viewers will discover Philip's legacy in education and the arts. The Duke of Edinburgh established The Prince Philip Trust Fund to support young people interested in the arts, sciences, and business. This fund helped many young people launch their careers in these fields and will continue to do so. Additionally, viewers will learn about Prince Philip's love for the environment as well as how he helped improve the image of modern monarchy in the UK.
Of course, the episode wouldn't be complete without showcasing how Prince Philip was a father and a grandfather. Prince Philip's fathering style and his ways with his children, especially Prince Charles, are explored. Viewers will witness how his close association with his grandchildren has helped to strengthen the Royal Family.
With plenty of footage and interviews of Prince Philip himself, the episode gives viewers a chance to see the moments that shaped his life journey. From the most significant moments of his naval career to his work with the Royal Family, viewers get to understand the man behind the prince's public image. Overall, Prince Philip: A Step Behind the Queen's episode is a moving testament to an extraordinary man whose contributions to British public life were truly significant, yet often overshadowed by his wife, Queen Elizabeth II.