Prince Harry makes surprise appearance on Strictly Come Dancing to cheer on friend

Duke of Sussex told his friend and contestant JJ Chalmers: ‘I’m so genuinely proud’

Prince Harry made a surprise appearance on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, during which he shared a supportive message for his friend and Invictus Games medalist, JJ Chalmers.

On Saturday, the Duke of Sussex called into one of Chalmers’ training sessions with his dance partner Amy Dowden via video chat.

“We've got somebody here who wants to see you,” Dowden told Chalmers as Harry appeared on the screen, to which Chalmers replied: “You're kidding!”

Harry started off the conversation with his friend by complimenting him on his tan, telling the dance contestant: “Nice tan JJ!”

The 36-year-old then reflected on his first meeting with Chalmers, who suffered severe injuries to his arms, face, and legs while serving with the elite Royal Marines in Afghanistan.

“When I first met JJ, he was a shell of himself,” Harry recalled. “But then to see you shine through Invictus and to become like yourself again - that was the start of an amazing journey.”

Chalmers also opened up about the impact the Invictus Games had on his life, telling viewers: “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.”

Chalmers participated in the first Invictus Games, a multi-sport event for wounded, injured, or sick armed services personnel founded by Harry, in 2014, where he won a gold medal.

During their conversation, the pair then bantered back and forth about Chalmers’ rehearsal outfits, with the British military veteran later revealing that Harry is a “friend, just like anybody else”.

“I’m so genuinely proud. You’re not a dancer, proving that you can do anything you put your mind to, which is amazing,” Prince Harry told his friend during the heartwarming cameo.

On social media, the virtual reunion between the friends prompted emotional responses from viewers.

“It was lovely to see Harry cheering on JJ & you could see this meant a lot to them both. Invictus has had a massive effect on so many injured veterans' lives. I'm so proud of Harry & JJ & so pleased permission was given for his uniform for this,” one person tweeted.

Another said: “Seeing Prince Harry on #Strictly just made my day. He looks so relaxed and happy. He is so like his mum, gentle, kind and loveable.”

Following Prince Harry’s virtual appearance, Chalmers performed in his Royal Marines uniform.