Prince Philip almost died 'twice' after secret surgery Queen Elizabeth's husband Prince Philip almost died "twice" after undergoing secret heart surgery in 2021, according to a new book. 1 April 2026 Prince Philip almost died "twice" after undergoing secret heart surgery in 2021, according to a new book. Prince Philip nearly died after secret heart surgery Queen Elizabeth's late husband was taken ill in early 2021 and was admitted to a hospital in London for tests before being transferred to another medical centre to undergo an operation - and the doctors "nearly lost him twice".