Princess Diana’s younger brother, Charles Spencer, recently released his memoir “Swan Song.” This book unveils fresh insights into Diana’s life within the royal family and beyond. Here are some key revelations from the memoir.
Charles’ Reaction to Diana’s Passing
On the morning of Diana’s death, Spencer recounted that then-Prince Charles seemed “giddily elated,” which Spencer compared to a lottery winner’s reaction. He perceived Charles as blasé, given the tragic circumstances. Spencer suggested that Charles may have viewed her death as a release, enabling him to marry the woman he truly loved. During heated exchanges about the funeral arrangements, Charles allegedly assured Spencer with a dismissive, “we’ll forget her soon enough,” a statement that stunned Spencer.
Diana’s Life after Divorce
After her separation, Diana formed a relationship with heart surgeon Dr. Hasnat Khan. Spencer wrote that Diana contemplated moving to South Africa with Khan for a fresh start, seeing England as “intolerable.” She imagined a future where Khan could work in Cape Town, and they could live “normally” near Spencer.
American Political Suitor
Spencer revealed Diana was courted by an American politician who believed marriage to her would ensure his presidential victory. Diana jested about potentially becoming the “ultimate trophy wife,” intrigued more by thwarting her British royal critics with envy than by the prospect of marriage.
The Panorama Interview
Despite being fed deceptive information by journalist Martin Bashir, Diana nearly canceled her famous “Panorama” interview. Spencer indicated Bashir and the program’s executives convinced Diana her life was at risk, persuading her to proceed with the interview as a safeguard.
Allegations About Prince Charles
Spencer recounted a conversation in which Charles seemed resentful of his role, lamenting his delayed inheritance compared to Spencer’s. In the memoir, Spencer also shared Diana’s belief that Charles was “in love with his valet,” although Spencer himself doubted the claim.
Diana’s Personal Interests
According to Spencer, Diana enjoyed traditionally feminine hobbies, such as collecting stuffed animals. She adored flowers, loved music by the Beatles and David Bowie, and frequently watched “The Sound of Music.” As a reader, she favored romance novels by Barbara Cartland.
Spencer’s “Swan Song” arrives as the 30th anniversary of Diana’s passing approaches. Her untimely death occurred in a car accident in Paris on August 31, 1997.
Buckingham Palace has stated that they’ll refrain from further comments on Spencer’s book.