New Drama 'Trouble' to Explore Queen Elizabeth II's Relationship with Angela Kelly
Filmmakers aim to tell the story of the late monarch's trusted aide through a dramatic lens, potentially navigating confidentiality agreements.
A new drama titled "Trouble" is in development, focusing on the close relationship between the late Queen Elizabeth II and her long-time aide Angela Kelly. The film, described as being in the style of Netflix's "The Crown," is being written by Bafta winner Jeremy Brock, known for his work on "A Very Royal Scandal." This creative approach is intended to provide more freedom in exploring Ms. Kelly's life and her significant influence within the royal household.
Sources suggest the filmmakers may have found a way to circumvent confidentiality agreements that Ms. Kelly, who served the Queen for many years, was required to sign as part of her royal service. The project aims to dramatize the extraordinary life of Ms. Kelly, who was known to be exceptionally trusted by the Queen, to the extent that the monarch considered them akin to 'sisters.' Ms. Kelly's duties included tasks such as 'wearing in' the Queen's new shoes.
However, Ms. Kelly was not universally popular among other courtiers. Her assertive demeanor and perceived willingness to challenge others earned her the nickname 'AK-47,' a reference to her initials and the Soviet assault rifle. The script for "Trouble" has been commissioned by Fox-Searchlight, with Brock's agent confirming the original screenplay's focus on the friendship between Queen Elizabeth II and Angela Kelly. Brock's previous work includes the script for the 2024 drama "A Very Royal Scandal," which depicted Prince Andrew's interview with Emily Maitlis.