Queen 'parachutes' into Olympics opening ceremony

LONDON - Queen Elizabeth II stunned the world by "parachuting" into the London 2012 opening ceremony, triggering a huge roar from the spectators at the Olympic Stadium.

A performer playing the role of Britain's Queen Elizabeth parachutes from a helicopter during the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium, July 27, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

In a film shot in Buckingham Palace itself, Queen Elizabeth II, playing herself, joined Daniel Craig as James Bond in her first acting role. She leaves with 007 in a helicopter, which swoops over the capital to scenes of great rejoicing on the journey to the Olympic Stadium.

As the helicopter steadies, James Bond slides open the door and the 86-year-old "Queen" parachutes out, followed by Bond. The familiar 007 theme tune resounds around the Stadium.

The Queen, accompanied by her husband the Duke of Edinburgh, then entered the Stadium with Jacques Rogges, president of the International Olympic Committee.

The Queen is to official declare the opening of the Games.

"The Queen made herself more accessible than ever before," Director of the opening ceremony Danny Boyle said.

Professional stuntman Gary Connery played the Queen in parachute.