JJ Chalmers, a former contestant on Strictly, has shared a rare glimpse into his close relationship with Prince Harry.
The former Royal Marine revealed in an interview with Radio Times that Archie Harrison, the son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, is a huge fan of the popular children’s television show The Octonauts.
JJ continued by mentioning how James, his own son, is a fan of the well-known animated program.
The devoted fathers, who met while serving in the military, have a close friendship and admit to having periodic “dad chats.” JJ talked about their relationship: “We have grown up together in some ways. We were both young men in the military when we first met.
Moving into the next phase of our lives — marriage and having children — together has been pretty lovely.
JJ continued, speaking candidly about their conversations: “Since we both have children now, we only have dad chat.
“I am aware that James, my son, and Archie both adore The Octonauts. The children share similar interests and are of a similar age.”
Photo: Getty Images
The children’s television program, which is adored by young people across the nation, is based on books written by Vicki Wong and Michael C. Murphy. The show follows a cute group of underwater explorers as they set out on various aquatic adventures.
Prince Harry was “one of the key people who created one of the key catalysts in my recovery,” according to JJ. The TV host was seriously hurt in a bomb blast in Afghanistan in 2011 while serving as a Royal Marine, and he expressed his “forever gratitude” to Harry.
Photo: Getty Images
JJ participated in Prince Harry’s wildly popular Invictus Games during his recovery. JJ demonstrated his dominance by winning gold and bronze in the recumbent road cycling event as well as a bronze in the 4×100-meter mixed relay.
While the former Strictly contestant admitted that Archie and his younger sister Lilibet had yet to enjoy a playdate with his children, Hayley and James, he did add: “I’m sure they’ll get together one day soon.”
