Charles Spencer on the royal fallout following Princess Diana's death

Charles Spencer is delving into the enduring fascination with his sister Princess Diana's life, despite the passage of nearly three decades since her untimely death. In his upcoming book, "Swan Song: Diana, My Sister," Spencer recounts a poignant conversation he had with her ex-husband, now King Charles, shortly after her passing. According to Spencer, the King seemed to suggest that the world would soon forget about Diana.

The book comes at a time when the 30th anniversary of Diana's tragic death is approaching, and Spencer has been inundated with requests to contribute to books or documentaries. Spencer believes that Diana's story has captivated audiences worldwide, but questions why a new book about such a well-known story is necessary. He states that he aims to provide the definitive story, giving readers a unique perspective.

Diana's life has been a subject of intense scrutiny, with Spencer acknowledging that people have often focused on her flaws without fully appreciating her unique force. He believes that many in the British establishment struggled to cope with Diana's unconventional yet brilliant personality. Spencer suggests that there were attempts to suppress her, referring to these individuals as the "men in gray suits" who worked for the royal family.

The book sheds light on the strained relationship between Diana and Charles, as well as the challenges Diana faced during their marriage. Spencer notes that Diana's popularity often overshadowed Charles, and her connection with Camilla, now Queen, further complicated their relationship. Charles is portrayed in a less favorable light in the book, with the palace responding by attributing Spencer's recollections to "fraternal grief."

Spencer's own experiences, including a conversation with Charles after Diana's death, reveal a complex family dynamic. He believes that Charles may have felt a sense of relief upon Diana's passing, as it allowed him to pursue his relationship with Camilla. Spencer also questions whether the family's decision to have the boys walk behind their mother's coffin during her funeral was motivated by a desire to protect Charles from public backlash.

In his eulogy at Diana's funeral, Spencer took on the role of protector for her legacy and her children. He expresses regret that the boys were made to walk behind their mother's coffin, believing it to be both absurd and potentially harmful to their emotional well-being. Spencer's reflections on this sensitive topic offer a glimpse into the lasting impact of Diana's death on her family and the royal household.