JJ Chalmers, a former royal marine and contestant on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, was in for quite the surprise last week.
While training with his dance partner, Amy Dowden, Chalmers's close pal, Prince Harry, called into the show to support him, marking Harry's first (virtual) U.K. appearance since he and his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped down from their royal duties earlier in 2020.
In the video, Prince Harry is all smiles as he sits in his living room—a popular location in the royal couple's California home. While reflecting on his close bond with Chalmers, he said, "When I first met JJ, he was a shell of himself. But then to see you shine through Invictus and to become like yourself again—that was the start of an amazing journey."
Chalmers, who sustained severe injuries while serving in the Royal Marines, first met Prince Harry through the Invictus Games, an international sporting event that Harry created in 2014 for sick and injured military personnel. Chalmers wound up winning three medals, then went on to become an ambassador for the games, developing a close friendship with Harry in the process.
The prince continued, "I'm so proud, genuinely proud. You’re not a dancer, proving that you can do anything you put your mind to, which is amazing."
Meanwhile, Chalmers explained how his friendship with Harry, as well as the Invictus Games, has impacted him. He said, "The simple fact is, if Prince Harry had not created the Invictus Games, I would not have had that catalyst moment that changed my life forever. I wouldn't be here without him."
Prince Harry, if you're accepting applications for new BFFs, we'd be happy to apply.
Want Prince Harry updates sent right to your inbox? Subscribe here.
