In a surprising revelation that bridges the worlds of music royalty and actual royalty, broadcaster Roman Kemp has disclosed the secret friendship between his parents, Martin Kemp and Shirlie Holliman, and the Princess of Wales.
The Unexpected Royal Invitation
The extraordinary encounter began not with the 80s pop legend, but with his son. Roman Kemp explained that the Princess of Wales, Kate, initially reached out to him directly to discuss a mental health project he was fronting. Following a productive Zoom call, the Princess expressed a desire to visit his home for filming related to the project.
Roman, however, made a pivotal suggestion. Instead of his own house, he proposed they film at the home of his parents, Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp and his wife Shirlie. This counter-offer was accepted, setting the stage for a truly surreal afternoon for the Kemp family.
A Princess in Socks and Homemade Gifts
The day of the visit saw a flurry of preparation. Shirlie Holliman raced out to stock up on nice things, ensuring their royal guest would be properly entertained. Roman recounted the moment of her arrival to The Sun on Saturday, noting a particularly relatable and humble gesture from the future Queen.
"I remember when she arrived she could see everyone else had taken their shoes off so she offered to take hers off," Roman shared. "It was surreal, somehow you never expect to see a member of the Royal Family in their socks!"
The filming, which was in support of Kate's 'Shaping Us' campaign, proceeded with the Princess enjoying tea and biscuits with Martin and Shirlie. In a charmingly personal touch to conclude the visit, the Kemp family presented the Princess with a gift of their very own home-pressed apple juice, made from apples grown in their garden.
A Lasting Impression and a Framed Memento
The entire experience left a profound impact on Roman, who was full of praise for the Princess. "Working with her was amazing," he stated. The interaction didn't end with the visit, either. The Princess of Wales later sent a thank-you note to Roman, a gesture he clearly cherishes.
Roman has since framed the royal note, and it now holds a place of pride on a wall in his home, serving as a permanent memento of the day the future Queen came for tea, took off her shoes, and left with a bottle of homemade juice.
