Dame Darcey Bussell has received her damehood.
The ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ judge was awarded the honour by Queen Elizabeth II at an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Friday (04.05.18).
Darcey – who started her professional career at Sadlers Wells Royal Ballet – was given the title for her services to the dance world for the past two decades.
And Darcey – who joined ‘Strictly’ in 2012 – compared her meeting with the Queen to getting married, and said she was overwhelmed by the day.
She said: "It was such a shock, I wasn’t expecting it at all.
"I’m still supporting the dance world and for me it’s recognition for all the dance institutions I’m involved with."
She later revealed that she would love to see the queen’s grandson Prince Harry take part in the BBC One ballroom and Latin show.
She said: "I would love to see Harry … I think he would try everything.
"He’d probably be great on Strictly, wouldn’t he? He would be fantastic."
The 49-year-old dancer was then asked what song she thinks Prince Harry and his fiancée Meghan Markle will use for their first dance at their wedding on May 19 at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.
She said: "I’d love to know their first dance, I had ABBA – ‘Dancing Queen’ – so I can imagine they would have something fun like that, but gosh, who knows, everybody has different things."
Darcey was joined at the royal residence by Sir Paul McCartney, who was made a Companion of Honour – a title which is given to individuals as a reward for outstanding achievement in their given field.
The Beatles legend was chosen for his services to music over the past six decades, and the accolade comes 20 years after he was knighted.
Darcey Bussell becomes a dame
