King Charles III issues fiery response to Princess Diana’s brother over claims in new book

Buckingham Palace has delivered a strong rebuke regarding the forthcoming memoir by Charles Spencer, the brother of Princess Diana. The book, titled "Swan Song: Diana, My Sister," slated for release next Tuesday, delves into the turbulent moments of Diana's marriage and the emotional aftermath of her tragic death in 1997. The memoir recounts a heated telephone conversation between Charles Spencer and the then-Prince of Wales regarding whether Princes William and Harry should walk behind their deceased mother's coffin.

Spencer alleges that Charles expressed his disdain and frustration, recounting the King's exclamation that they would "soon forget her." Additionally, Spencer claims Charles sounded "giddily elated" during a separate conversation on the night of Diana's passing, suggesting a personal sense of relief rather than genuine grief. Buckingham Palace responded with a rare forceful statement, acknowledging that the pain of fraternal grief might have colored the author's recollection of events over the past three decades.

The palace emphasized that while they do not comment on books, His Majesty is acutely aware of how prolonged grief can affect one's judgment and memory. The memoir also revisits the long-standing marital tensions that culminated in Diana's divorce in 1996. Spencer details Diana's battles with an eating disorder and her struggles with royal medical staff, including her repeated contemplation of ending her life at Beachy Head.

Spencer maintains a neutral stance on marital blame while documenting his sister's perspective, stating he is merely recording how she felt without assessing the validity of her emotions. As the publication date approaches, the enduring public fascination with Diana's legacy continues to influence the modern monarchy's relationship with the media, presenting both the institution and the family with the challenge of preserving private remembrance while navigating public scrutiny.