Queen Elizabeth II’s official biographer named as acclaimed historian

Queen Elizabeth II, historian Anna Keay, known for her acclaimed book on Britain’s republican period. Confirmed as Elizabeth’s official biographer.

This important appointment gives Ms Keay extensive access and allows her to consult members of the Royal Family, friends of the late Queen and household staff during her investigation.

They will also gain access to Queen Elizabeth’s personal and official documents, which are securely kept in the Royal Archives.

The approval follows reports last weekend that the King was seeking a female writer for the role and that Ms Keay had previously been in talks for the prestigious role.

Official royal biographies often reveal unexpected facts and shed light on important historical periods.

William Shawcross’s official biography of Elizabeth the Queen Mother reveals that Edward VIII was believed to have been “overwhelmed with love” at the time of his abdication, and that although he suffered from bowel cancer in his 60s, he was successfully treated.

At the time of her appointment, Ms Keay said: “It is a great honor to be asked to write the official biography of Queen Elizabeth II.

“She was our longest-reigning monarch and an extraordinary woman whose life spanned a century of great change.”

Ms Keay is a trustee of the Royal Collection Trust, which the King patronises, and a member of the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee.

He has written several books about British history and culture, including The Uneasy Republic: Uncrowned Britain, winner of the 2023 Duff Cooper Prize for Non-Fiction, about the 11 years when England became a republic after the trial and execution of Charles I.

The historian added: “I am deeply grateful to His Majesty the King for giving me this responsibility and giving me access to his documents, and I will do all I can to achieve justice for his life and work.”