The History Press have secured publication rights to The Royal Film Performance: A Celebration by Robert Sellers and Gareth Owen.
Fully authorised by The Film and Television Charity and by Buckingham Palace, this book will celebrate the 80th anniversary of iconic Royal Film Performances.
For nearly eight decades, the Royal family has been gracing the red carpet to see the most eagerly anticipated film of the year. Since 1946, the Royal Film Performance has been an annual highlight of the entertainment social calendar, where cinema’s most famous icons have come face to face with royalty.
With authors Gareth Owen and Robert Sellers, dive into the glitz, glamour and regal encounters of each Royal Film Performance, the memorable moments and the fascinating stories. From Marilyn Monroe’s nervous encounter with Queen Elizabeth II to the cheeky remarks of Jayne Mansfield, witness the intersection of cinema’s luminaries and royalty.
Photographer Harry Myers attended the first Royal Film Performance in 1946 and documented the event for nearly five decades before passing the baton to his son, Scott. With access to Harry’s archive and the charity’s extensive collection—including brochures, reports, press clippings, and ephemera from all 72 performances—the authors will create a richly illustrated and engaging book that celebrates the stars, Royal guests, and legacy of one of Britain’s most distinguished charities.
After earning a degree in Applied Physics in 1994, Gareth Owen entered the film industry, launching a production company at Pinewood Studios. He worked with Edgar Wright and Sir Norman Wisdom before becoming Sir Roger Moore’s personal manager and ghostwriting all four of his autobiographies. Gareth has authored, co-authored, or ghosted over 20 books.
Originally training as an actor, Robert Sellers turned to film journalism, writing for The Guardian, The Sunday Times, Empire, and The Independent, among others. He has authored, co-authored, and ghosted 25 books.
As the curtain rises on this cinematic celebration, The Royal Film Performance: A Celebration pays homage to the stars, the royals and the unsung heroes of the industry, sure to delight fans of the royal family and cinema aficionados alike.
The book will be released on October 23, 2025 and can be ordered now.

