Queen Elizabeth's trusted whisperer dies after inspiring millions worldwide

Queen Elizabeth II's longtime friend and renowned horse trainer Monty Roberts has died at the age of 91.

Roberts passed away on 31 July at his home in Solvang, California. 

His daughter, Debbie Roberts Loucks, announced the news with what she described as "profound sadness," paying tribute to a father whose compassion changed the lives of both horses and people around the world.

Known internationally as "the man who listens to horses," Roberts revolutionised traditional horse training by replacing fear and force with trust, patience and communication. 

His groundbreaking methods challenged practices that had existed for centuries and earned him worldwide respect.

Speaking about his philosophy in later life, Roberts explained that horses could learn to accept a saddle and rider in under half an hour without violence.

His remarkable journey inspired the bestselling memoir The Man Who Listens to Horses, which sold millions of copies worldwide and introduced his ideas to readers far beyond the equestrian community.

Roberts' relationship with the British royal family began in 1989 when he was invited to Windsor Castle by the Queen Mother to demonstrate his approach. 

The display made such an impression that Queen Elizabeth II soon became one of his strongest supporters, beginning a friendship that would last more than three decades.

The late Queen regularly welcomed Roberts to royal estates and remained deeply interested in his work throughout her reign. 

He often credited her encouragement with helping him share his message across the world, saying her support opened doors to audiences in dozens of countries.

Their friendship remained close until Queen's death in September 2022. 

Roberts travelled to Britain to attend her state funeral, later recalling the emotional moment her coffin entered Westminster Abbey.

He admitted he had promised himself he would remain composed, but grief quickly overwhelmed him.