Charles Spencer releases memoir detailing Princess Diana’s life and royal ties

Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer, is generating significant discussion following the release of his memoir, ‘Swan Song: Diana, My Sister’. In various interviews, including with CNN and at an event in New York, Spencer has shared intimate reflections on his late sister, Princess Diana, and her relationship with the Royal Family.

Spencer claims that Diana was genuinely in love with the future King Charles III at the time of their marriage, despite Charles allegedly telling her the day before the wedding that he was not in love with her. He also notes that Diana’s immense global popularity was often viewed as ‘irksome’ or ‘threatening’ by some members of the Royal Family.

The memoir has sparked tension with the monarchy. Spencer criticized King Charles III for what he described as a ‘very aggressive’ reaction to the book, specifically citing a claim that the King expressed a desire to forget Diana shortly before her funeral. Buckingham Palace responded by stating that ‘the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason’.

Regarding his relationship with his nephews, Prince William and Prince Harry, Spencer describes himself as ‘simply an uncle’ who is available to both men without taking sides in their ongoing rift. He also addressed reports of a potential documentary about Diana, remaining non-committal about Prince Harry’s involvement. Additionally, Spencer clarified that while William and Harry will not inherit the Spencer family estate, Althorp, they remain welcome to visit their mother’s grave privately.