Peter Freestone, twelve years at Freddie Mercury’s side
Freddie Mercury’s personal assistant and confidant, Peter Freestone has an insider’s perspective on the artist’s life.
Behind the Queen singer’s stage presence, Peter knew a thoughtful, demanding and generous man. His memories reveal another side of Freddie through their travels, time together at home and stays in Montreux.
His story connects life backstage with the history of Queen. Today, his books, personal accounts and encounters offer a chance to discover the man behind the legend.
From the Royal Ballet to touring with Queen
Born on 8 January 1955 in Surrey, England, Peter Freestone spent part of his childhood in India before returning to study in London. He began his working life in catering at Selfridges, then joined the Royal Opera House, where he worked in the Royal Ballet’s wardrobe department.
A Royal Ballet gala in 1979 gave him the opportunity to meet Freddie Mercury. A few weeks later, he was hired to look after Queen’s costumes on the Crazy Tour. This first collaboration marked the beginning of twelve years alongside the singer.
Two photographs of Peter Freestone with Freddie Mercury.
Freddie Mercury’s everyday life
Becoming his personal assistant in 1980, Peter accompanied Freddie far beyond the concerts and tours.
Nicknamed “Phoebe” by Freddie, he took care of everyday arrangements, correspondence and welcoming guests. This close relationship shaped an account full of personal memories, from moments of creativity to quieter times away from the spotlight.
Peter Freestone says, "For twelve years I was in close contact with Freddie on an almost daily basis, taking on a multitude of different roles day after day. I was the handyman, waiter, butler, secretary, cleaner, babysitter and responsible for his personal correspondence. I was with him when he was at the top, just as I was present during the low points. I saw the inspiration and I saw his frustration when things were at their worst. I was his bodyguard when necessary and, in the end, of course, I was one of his "nurses".”
Montreux, a lasting connection
Peter first discovered Montreux in 1981 during a stay with Freddie and Queen. Through recording sessions and return visits to the shores of Lake Geneva, he witnessed the special place the town came to hold in the singer’s life.
This peaceful Swiss city brought peace to Freddie Mercury's mind and soul: "He needed it to finish the recording work he had started and to which he wanted to devote himself until his death," he says.
That connection continues through Freddie Days, which Peter regularly attends, and the encounters organised in Montreux. Since 2020, he has also narrated the English audioguides for Freddie Tours, sharing his memories along the route.
Peter Freestone beside the Freddie Mercury statue in Montreux.
Keeping the memories alive
Through his books and encounters, Peter shares his personal memories of Freddie Mercury, with as much attention to the man as to the artist.
Written with David Evans, his books explore their everyday life and what Freddie left behind. Freddie Mercury’s Royal Recipes, published in 2016, also reveals his tastes at the table through recipes, photographs and anecdotes.
Based in the Czech Republic, Peter has also been involved in the TFA Project, which raises awareness of HIV and AIDS among young people. His various projects help pass this story on to new generations.
Their memories and anecdotes come to life in intimate venues linked to Freddie Mercury, during a warm and friendly gathering.
Meet Peter and Terry, two of the people who were closest to Freddie Mercury. Enjoy a special moment by their side in a relaxed atmosphere. Talk with them, listen to their personal anecdotes and discover Freddie through the eyes of those who shared his everyday life. Choose your experience and enjoy a rare, unforgettable moment in Montreux.
Once or twice a yearExclusive gatherings
In a small groupAt exceptional venues
Peter Freestone
For more than ten years, Peter was Freddie Mercury’s personal assistant, accompanying him on tour and in everyday life. As a confidant and friend, he reveals the man behind the legend through his personal memories.
Terry Giddings
As Freddie Mercury’s driver and bodyguard, Terry handled his transport and looked after his safety. Part of his inner circle, he was also by his side in everyday life, away from the spotlight.
Upcoming encounters with Peter Freestone and Terry Giddings, Freddie Tours and Freddie Days dates, and news about Freddie Mercury and Montreux: get the updates you won’t want to miss, straight to your inbox. Stay connected and plan your next visit to Montreux.
