King Faces Third Day of Controversy Over Diana Claims
Earl Spencer’s memoir, serialized in the Daily Mail, claims that Queen Elizabeth II contemplated reinstating Princess Diana’s HRH title after her divorce, sparking fresh controversy for King Charles III. The book also recounts the King’s reaction to Diana’s death and details of Diana’s personal str…
By Felo News Desk · Published
The King is poised to endure a third day of controversy as the latest chapter of Earl Spencer’s memoir, “Swan Song: Diana, My Sister,” is serialized in the Daily Mail. The book alleges that Queen Elizabeth II considered restoring Princess Diana’s Her Royal Highness title after her divorce from Prince Charles, a claim that has reignited a long‑running feud between the royal household and the former Princess’s brother.
What the Memoir Claims
In the most recent excerpt, Earl Spencer – the brother of the late Princess of Wales – writes that the late Queen “considered restoring Diana’s HRH titles upon her death.” He also recounts that the King, when called to speak to him shortly after Diana’s death in 1997, sounded “giddily elated… like a lottery winner.” According to Spencer, the King told him, “rest assured, we’ll forget her soon enough.” These remarks, if true, suggest a dismissive attitude toward Diana’s legacy that many view as disrespectful.
The memoir goes further, describing Diana’s mental state in the months after her death. Spencer claims that Diana drove to the cliffs at Beachy Head in East Sussex on several occasions, “contemplating ending it all,” and that her love for her sons ultimately prevented her from taking her own life. He also alleges that Diana told him, “my husband is in love with his valet,” after announcing her intention to divorce Charles.
Royal Family’s Response and Current Activities
Buckingham Palace has not yet issued a formal response to the new allegations. A palace spokesman said on Wednesday that “fraternal grief can cloud reason,” a statement that many interpreted as a vague attempt to deflect criticism.
Meanwhile, the royal family has been busy with public engagements. King Charles III presided over a gathering of the world’s leading AI companies on Thursday, warning of the “existential dangers” of emerging technologies falling into the wrong hands. The Prince and Princess of Wales visited Scotland’s Isle of Bute, where they met residents, posed for selfies, and played shinty to celebrate the island’s community spirit.
Other members of the family continued their duties: The Princess Royal opened a new history centre at the German military cemetery in Staffordshire, and the Duchess of Edinburgh remained on a tour of Zambia. The Duke of Sussex, who the King has clarified is no longer a working member of the royal family, made his first public appearance since returning to the UK at the inaugural Invictus Spirit Awards in London.
Diana’s Legacy and Upcoming Auction
In a related development, Diana’s iconic black silk “revenge dress,” worn after Prince Charles admitted to adultery, will go up for auction in December. Sotheby’s will host a media call for the dress’s first public display since 1997. The dress is expected to fetch up to £220,000 at auction.
Harry will also join Invictus Games alumni and pupils for a school visit and the launch of the Inspire education programme for Invictus Games Birmingham 2027. These events underscore the continued influence of Diana’s legacy on the royal family’s public image.
What Happens Next?
The palace’s silence on the latest claims leaves the controversy unresolved. As the memoir continues to be serialized, public opinion remains divided. Some see the book as a necessary reckoning with the past, while others view it as an opportunistic attack on the monarchy. The outcome will likely depend on how the royal household chooses to address these allegations in the coming days.
With the King’s schedule packed and the royal family’s public engagements ongoing, the next few weeks will be critical for the monarchy’s reputation. Whether the palace will issue a formal rebuttal or choose to let the matter fade remains to be seen.
In the meantime, the public and media will continue to scrutinize every new development, ensuring that the royal family’s actions are closely monitored.
Key facts
- Earl Spencer claims Queen Elizabeth II considered restoring Diana’s HRH title
- The King allegedly reacted dismissively to Diana’s death
- Spencer details Diana’s mental health struggles and family dynamics
- The palace has not yet responded to the new claims
- Diana’s black dress will auction in December
- Royal family remains active in public duties
Why it matters
The allegations touch on the dignity of a beloved public figure and the integrity of the monarchy, influencing public perception and trust in the institution.
Frequently asked questions
What is the source of the new claims about the King?
Earl Spencer’s memoir, “Swan Song: Diana, My Sister,” serialized in the Daily Mail.
Has Buckingham Palace responded to the allegations?
No formal response has been issued; a spokesman offered a vague statement about grief.
When will Diana’s black dress go to auction?
The dress is scheduled for auction in December, with Sotheby’s hosting a media call.
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “King set for third day of controversy as ‘war of words’ rumbles on”
