Diana’s brother says Charles sounded ‘giddily elated’ after her death
Buckingham Palace defended King Charles against claims in Earl Charles Spencer's memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, which alleges the king sounded giddily elated following the 1997 death of Princess Diana. The book reached half-price sales at UK bookshops including Waterstones shortly after publication, renewing royal family scrutiny. Prince Harry separately stated he wants his disagreements with his brother and King Charles to work out. The memoir prompts questions regarding whether Princess Diana's demise was part of a nefarious plot, bringing fresh public attention to historical royal tensions.
Listen to Live Briefing
Real-time synthesized voice briefing · Live Feeds Desk
- ✓ Buckingham Palace issued a rare statement defending King Charles against allegations made by Earl Charles Spencer in his memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister.
- ✓ Earl Charles Spencer's book claims that King Charles sounded giddily elated following the 1997 death of Princess Diana.
- ✓ The publication reached half-price sales in UK bookshops such as Waterstones shortly after its release.
- ✓ Prince Harry stated he wants his disagreements with his brother and father King Charles to work out.
What changed
Prince Harry's public statement regarding wanting to work out his disagreements with King Charles and his brother adds a new dimension to ongoing royal family tensions.
Live updates
-
Earl Spencer Claims Charles Was Giddily Elated After Diana's Death
Buckingham Palace defended King Charles against claims in Earl Charles Spencer's memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, which alleges the king sounded giddily elated following the 1997 death of Princess Diana. The book reached half-price sales at UK bookshops including Waterstones shortly after publication, renewing royal family scrutiny. Prince Harry separately stated he wants his disagreements with his brother and King Charles to work out. The memoir prompts questions regarding whether Princess Diana's demise was part of a nefarious plot, bringing fresh public attention to historical royal tensions.
Why it matters
The allegations revive decades-old public scrutiny surrounding the tragic death of Princess Diana in 1997. Buckingham Palace issued a rare statement to defend the monarch against the explosive assertions made in the memoir. Meanwhile, Prince Harry expressed a desire to resolve ongoing family rifts with both the king and his brother.
What is confirmed
- Buckingham Palace issued a rare statement defending King Charles against allegations made by Earl Charles Spencer in his memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister.
- Earl Charles Spencer's book claims that King Charles sounded giddily elated following the 1997 death of Princess Diana.
- The publication reached half-price sales in UK bookshops such as Waterstones shortly after its release.
- Prince Harry stated he wants his disagreements with his brother and father King Charles to work out.
Still unconfirmed
- Princess Diana's demise was part of some nefarious plot.
What to watch next
- Further statements from Buckingham Palace or individual royal family members regarding the memoir.
- Sales performance and public reception data for Earl Charles Spencer's book across international markets.
- Any potential direct response from Prince Harry concerning the specific claims in the memoir.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.yahoo.com — Yahoo
- stylecaster.com — What Did Princess Diana’s Brother Say About Her Death?
- www.cbsnews.com — The royal family: Latest news as British royal family grows ...
- www.perthnow.com.au — Human Interest | PerthNow
-
Buckingham Palace Defends King Charles Against Memoir
Buckingham Palace has issued a rare statement defending King Charles against allegations made by Earl Charles Spencer in his new memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister. The book claims that King Charles sounded giddily elated following the 1997 death of Princess Diana. Meanwhile, the publication has already reached half-price sales in UK bookshops such as Waterstones shortly after its release, as the royal family faces renewed scrutiny from the late princess's brother.
Why it matters
Royal memoirs frequently ignite public scrutiny, but direct interventions by Buckingham Palace remain uncommon. The tension stems from Earl Spencer releasing his new book across UK retailers, adding fresh friction to the ongoing legacy of Princess Diana. The memoir has drawn immediate pushback from the monarchy as public interest collides with commercial discounting.
What is confirmed
- Buckingham Palace issued a statement defending King Charles against allegations made by Earl Charles Spencer in a new memoir.
- Earl Charles Spencer's memoir is titled Swan Song: Diana, My Sister.
- Swan Song: Diana, My Sister went on sale in bookshops across the UK, including Waterstones.
Still unconfirmed
- Earl Spencer is reportedly planning new tensions for King Charles and Prince William following the release of his book.
- The book Swan Song: Diana, My Sister has been sold at half price just hours after its release.
What to watch next
- Any further statements from Buckingham Palace or representatives for King Charles
- Reactions and responses from Prince William and Prince Harry regarding the memoir
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (8)
- www.wionews.com — 'We'll forget her soon enough': Buckingham Palace defends ...
- www.bbc.com — BBC Home - Breaking News, World News, US News, Sports, Business...
- thewest.com.au — Human Interest - The West Australian
- www.wionews.com — Flop or clever business play? Earl Spencer’s new book on ...
- www.thenews.com.pk — Princess Diana's brother plans new tensions for King Charles ...
- www.hellomagazine.com — Princess Diana of Wales Latest News | HELLO! - Page 2
- www.harpersbazaar.com — Exclusive: How Prince William and Kate Are Handling Meghan and Prince Harry’s Move Back to the U.K.
- www.wfmz.com — Buckingham Palace hits back at claims in a book by Princess ...
-
Earl Spencer's claims about Charles' reaction to Diana's death spark controversy
Earl Spencer's memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, claims Prince Charles sounded 'giddily elated' after Diana's death in 1997. Royal insiders and figures close to the monarchy have condemned Earl Spencer, labeling him deeply disloyal. Queen Camilla is reportedly furious over the book's contents. A royal expert has also questioned the accuracy of Earl Spencer's claims.
Why it matters
The controversy surrounding Earl Spencer's memoir comes as the royal family continues to navigate public scrutiny. The book's release has sparked heated debates about the royal family's handling of Diana's death and the relationships between its members. Earl Spencer's claims have been met with criticism from those close to the monarchy.
What is confirmed
- Earl Spencer's memoir claims Prince Charles sounded 'giddily elated' after Diana's death in 1997.
- Queen Camilla is reportedly furious over the contents of Earl Spencer's book.
- Royal insiders and figures close to the monarchy have condemned Earl Spencer, labeling him deeply disloyal.
Still unconfirmed
- King Charles is not doing well after Earl Spencer's allegations.
What to watch next
- The reaction of Prince William and Prince Harry to Earl Spencer's claims.
- Any official response from the royal family to Earl Spencer's memoir.
- The impact on Earl Spencer's relationships with his family members.
confidence 70%Sources used for this update (7)
- www.cheatsheet.com — King Charles Not Doing Well After Princess Diana’s Brother’s Bombshell Claims About Him - Showbiz Che....
- okmagazine.com — Royal Expert Flags 'Inaccuracies' In Earl Spencer's Diana Memoir
- www.telegraph.co.uk — Princess Diana - The Telegraph
- www.bbc.com — BBC Audio | Six O'Clock News | Charles 'giddily elated' after Diana died, her brother claims
- www.thenews.com.pk — Charles Spencer reveals the only actress who truly impressed him as Princess Diana
- stylecaster.com — Prince William Update After Harry Reunion Rumors - StyleCaster
- www.thenews.com.pk — Charles Spencer’s wife takes him to 'macabre place'
-
Backlash Follows Earl Spencer Memoir Detailing Diana Death
Earl Charles Spencer faces severe criticism from royal insiders and figures close to the monarchy following the publication of his memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister. The book recounts the events surrounding the August 1997 Paris crash that killed Diana, Princess of Wales, and includes a disputed claim that then-Prince Charles sounded giddily elated during a telephone call after her death. Queen Camilla is reportedly furious over the contents of the book. Critics, including a royal friend and a former butler, have condemned the author and labeled him deeply disloyal.
Why it matters
Diana married Charles III in July 1981 at St Paul's Cathedral. Their relationship deteriorated due to incompatibility and extramarital affairs, leading to a separation in 1992 and a formal divorce in 1996. Diana died from injuries sustained in an August 1997 car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris alongside Dodi Fayed and chauffeur Henri Paul. Investigations later attributed the crash to Paul's intoxication and high speed, alongside the actions of pursuing paparazzi.
What is confirmed
- Diana, Princess of Wales, died from injuries sustained in a car crash in the Pont de l'Alma tunnel in Paris, France, in the late hours of 31 August 1997.
- Diana married Charles III, then Prince of Wales, at St Paul's Cathedral in July 1981, and the couple divorced in 1996.
Still unconfirmed
- Earl Charles Spencer claims in his memoir that Charles sounded giddily elated during a telephone call following Diana's death.
- Queen Camilla is furious over the contents of Earl Charles Spencer's memoir.
- Critics including a former butler and a royal friend have challenged the book's accounts and labeled the author deeply disloyal.
What to watch next
- Any official statements or responses from Buckingham Palace regarding the claims in the memoir
- Further public reactions or commentary from royal family members or close associates
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (6)
- en.wikipedia.org — Diana, Princess of Wales - Wikipedia
- www.youtube.com — Kids Diana Show - YouTube
- www.youtube.com — Diana and Her Funny Stories - Big Video Compilation
- kidvideo.org — Diana and Roma - Collection new series for children
- en.wikipedia.org — Death of Diana, Princess of Wales - Wikipedia
- www.yahoo.com — Princess Diana’s Friend Accuses Charles Spencer of ‘Deep Disloyalty’ Over Memoir
-
Earl Spencer Memoir Stokes Royal Backlash Over Diana
Earl Charles Spencer faces intense backlash from royal insiders following the release of his memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister. The book details controversial memories from the August 1997 Paris crash, including a disputed telephone call where then-Prince Charles allegedly sounded giddily elated. Figures close to the monarchy have criticized the publication, while sources report Queen Camilla is furious over the memoir's contents. Critics including a former butler and a royal friend have challenged the book's accounts and labeled the author deeply disloyal, deepening tensions surrounding the late princess's legacy.
Why it matters
The fallout centers on Charles Spencer's recent revelations regarding Princess Diana's life, her difficult relationship with the royal family, and the immediate aftermath of her death. The publication has triggered sharp divisions, drawing public rebuttals from royal associates while reigniting historical debates about the royal household's treatment of the princess. Prince William has reportedly reacted to the memoir's claims about his father.
What is confirmed
- Earl Charles Spencer released a new memoir titled Swan Song: Diana, My Sister.
- The memoir includes a recollection of a telephone conversation with then-Prince Charles shortly after the fatal Paris crash in August 1997.
- Princess Diana's former butler has challenged Earl Spencer's memoir regarding conflicting memories of 1997.
Still unconfirmed
- Queen Camilla is reportedly furious and raging mad at Charles Spencer over his new memoir.
- Prince William is reportedly sickened by King Charles' comment detailed in the book.
- Princess Diana reportedly had a haunting regret and loved King Charles until the very end.
What to watch next
- Direct statements from senior members of the royal family regarding the memoir's allegations.
- Further public responses from Prince William or Prince Harry concerning the book.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (12)
- www.dailymail.com — Diana's brother now says she would have been happy if she never married Charles… the princess's prank c....
- stylecaster.com — Prince Andrew's Response to Princess Diana's Brother's Book
- www.yahoo.com — Princess Diana Had a Haunting Regret About King Charles After Divorce — Expert
- www.yahoo.com — William Reportedly ‘Sickened’ by Charles’ ‘Evil Insult’ About Diana—He’ll ‘Protect Her Le....
- okmagazine.com — The Biggest Revelations From Charles Spencer's New Princess Diana Memoir 'Swan Song' - OK! Magazine
- www.theeyota.com — Princess Diana’s Former Butler Challenges Earl Spencer’s ...
- www.aol.com — Princess Diana was 'the most hunted person of the ... - AOL
- okmagazine.com — 'Furious' Queen Camilla Is 'Raging Mad' at Princess Diana's Brother Charles Spencer, Sources Say She Want....
- stylecaster.com — Prince William's Response to King Charles' Princess Diana Comment
- www.dailymail.com — Earl Spencer criticises Princess Anne for 'making me feel small' with withering response to question abou....
- www.eastbaytimes.com — Prince Harry earned at least $100,000 to detail grief over Diana's death: report
- www.realitytea.com — Princess Diana’s Friend Accuses Charles Spencer of ‘Deep ...
-
Earl Spencer Defends Memoir Amid Royal Fallout
Earl Spencer is facing intense pushback from royal insiders and Buckingham Palace sources following the release of his memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister. During an appearance on CNN's The Source With Kaitlan Collins, Diana's brother stated his intention was not to wage a war of words with King Charles III, but rather to provide a cautionary tale regarding the treatment of Princess Diana's youngest son. The book details explosive allegations about King Charles sounding giddily elated after Diana's death and mentions Palace spies attempting to vet a window eulogy.
Why it matters
The book release has triggered friction within the royal family, placing pressure on Prince Harry to distance himself from his uncle. Queen Camilla has reportedly issued a scathing response to the publication. The memoir also revisits the 1981 wedding, revealing why the 20-year-old royal went through with the ceremony.
What is confirmed
- Earl Spencer defended his memoir Swan Song: Diana, My Sister against pushback from royal insiders.
- Diana's brother appeared on CNN's The Source With Kaitlan Collins to discuss the book.
Still unconfirmed
- Earl Spencer claimed he shared King Charles's alleged Diana remark with Barbara Walters shortly after it was allegedly made in 1997.
- Prince Harry faces pressure to distance himself from Charles Spencer following the book release.
- Queen Camilla reportedly issued a scathing response to Charles Spencer's book.
What to watch next
- Any official statement from Buckingham Palace or King Charles III regarding the memoir claims
- Public response or action from Prince Harry concerning his relationship with Earl Spencer
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.gbnews.com — Barbara Walters 'told about King Charles's alleged Diana ...
- radaronline.com — Prince Harry Pressured to 'Distance Himself' From Uncle Charles Spencer Following Explosive Release of His Memoir About Princess Diana
- www.yahoo.com — Princess Diana Loved King Charles, Her Brother Says
- stylecaster.com — Queen Camilla's Response to Princess Diana's Brother's Book - StyleCaster
-
Earl Spencer Defends Diana Memoir Amid King Charles Allegations
Earl Spencer is defending his tell-all memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, following intense pushback from royal insiders and Buckingham Palace sources. During an appearance on CNN's The Source With Kaitlan Collins, Diana's brother stated his intention was not to wage a war of words with King Charles III, but rather to provide a cautionary tale regarding the treatment of Princess Diana's youngest son. The book details explosive allegations about King Charles sounding giddily elated after Diana's death and mentions Palace spies attempting to vet a window eulogy.
Why it matters
The publication of the memoir has triggered significant friction between Earl Spencer and senior members of the royal family, with sources reporting anger from both King Charles III and Prince William. Prince William was reportedly sickened by comments his father allegedly made following the 1997 death of Princess Diana. Meanwhile, public interest continues to drive strong book sales while commentators and former associates debate the validity of the controversial accounts.
What is confirmed
- Earl Spencer appeared on CNN's The Source With Kaitlan Collins to discuss allegations made in his memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister.
- Earl Spencer stated that his memoir is not intended to wage a war of words with King Charles.
- Earl Spencer stated he hopes his sister's story serves as a cautionary tale for how people treat her youngest son.
Still unconfirmed
- King Charles sounded giddily elated after Princess Diana's death.
- Prince William was sickened and floored by comments his father allegedly made in the aftermath of Diana's 1997 death.
- Palace spies wanted to vet Earl Spencer's window eulogy.
What to watch next
- Any official response from Buckingham Palace or King Charles III regarding the memoir's claims.
- Further public statements or interviews from Earl Spencer or royal insiders.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- radaronline.com — EXCLUSIVE: King Charles' 'Words of Fear' After Diana's Death Revealed
- www.dailymail.com — Prince Harry 'wants to reconcile with William' but 30th anniversary of Diana's death 'won't make any diff....
- www.yahoo.com — Princess Diana’s Brother Reveals What King Charles ... - Yahoo
- www.ctvnews.ca — Royals: Charles Spencer on Diana book: ‘Not a hatchet job’
- www.aol.com — Princess Diana's brother hits out at King Charles over tense ...
- radaronline.com — EXCLUSIVE: Prince William 'Sickened' by Dad King Charles' 'Evil Insult' About Late Mom Diana — After Ch....
-
Earl Spencer Defends Memoir Amid Royal Fallout
Earl Spencer faces sharp pushback from royal insiders and former staff following the release of his memoir detailing Princess Diana's death. While Buckingham Palace sources report anger from King Charles III and Prince William over the explosive allegations, the author insists on the validity of his accounts. The book also discloses that Palace spies wanted to vet his window eulogy and touches on Diana's romantic history. Meanwhile, public interest drives strong book sales as commentators and former associates line up to dispute or support the controversial narrative.
Why it matters
The book release comes as the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana's death approaches, turning memories of her passing into a fresh battleground for the royal family. Earl Spencer maintains that his role as a historian compels him to share these details, which he previously disclosed to journalist Barbara Walters. The conflicting accounts highlight deep divisions over how the late princess's legacy and final moments are publicly portrayed.
What is confirmed
- Earl Spencer is defending his new memoir detailing Princess Diana's death and subsequent royal reactions.
- British shoppers purchased copies of the book following widespread public interest in the allegations.
- Earl Spencer stated that Palace spies wanted to vet his window eulogy.
Still unconfirmed
- King Charles III and Prince William are furious over the royal memoir and its allegations.
- Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is gleeful over the release and the suffering it is causing.
- Princess Diana considered becoming a first lady after being courted by an American politician.
What to watch next
- Further public statements or legal responses from Buckingham Palace representatives.
- Additional reactions from Prince William or Prince Harry regarding the memoir's claims.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (7)
- www.foxnews.com — King Charles, Prince William 'furious' as Princess Diana's brother unleashes explosive claims: experts
- www.express.co.uk — Earl Spencer insists on ‘those five words’ as he take new ...
- www.foxnews.com — Princess Diana's brother reveals secret suitor, royal family ...
- www.yahoo.com — Ex-Prince Andrew Is ‘Gleeful’ Over Princess Diana’s Brother Exposing King Charles in His Book: ‘K....
- www.nine.com.au — Royals emerge victorious over Princess Diana’s brother, one week after Swan Song book threatened to des....
- www.thedailybeast.com — Memories of Diana Princess of Wales Are a Tragic Battleground for William and Harry, the Sons She Left Be....
- okmagazine.com — Princess Diana's Former Butler Slams Her Brother's 'Spiteful' Memoir, Insists King Charles Was 'Broken' a....
-
Earl Spencer Defends Charles Claims From Memoir
Earl Spencer is defending his memoir detailing Princess Diana's death and subsequent royal reactions amid severe criticism from Buckingham Palace. British shoppers purchased copies of the book following widespread public interest in the incendiary allegations. Spencer defended his work during a media appearance, stating his duty as a historian is to lay down facts. He also asserted that he shared the disputed royal remark with the late American journalist Barbara Walters at the time.
Why it matters
The publication of the memoir has triggered intense public scrutiny and a sharp rebuke from Buckingham Palace. The controversy centers on allegations regarding King Charles III and the royal family's handling of Princess Diana's passing and funeral arrangements. These disputes reopen decades-old divisions concerning the monarchy's public and private conduct following the 1997 tragedy.
What is confirmed
- Earl Spencer published a new book about Princess Diana titled Swan Song: Diana, My Sister.
- Earl Spencer appeared on CNN's The Source With Kaitlan Collins to discuss the allegations in his book.
- British shoppers purchased copies of the memoir following interest in the allegations.
Still unconfirmed
- Earl Spencer stated he told the late US journalist Barbara Walters about King Charles' alleged remark at the time.
- Earl Spencer claimed part of his duty as a historian is to lay down facts.
What to watch next
- Further public statements or legal responses from Buckingham Palace.
- Additional interviews or promotional appearances by Earl Spencer regarding the book.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (6)
- www.aol.com — Princess Diana's brother branded 'spiteful' for shocking King Charles claims in new book
- stylecaster.com — King Charles' Response to Princess Diana's Brother's Book Swan Song - StyleCaster
- www.yahoo.com — Charles Spencer Says He Told Barbara Walters About King Charles’ Shocking Comment After Princess Diana....
- uk.news.yahoo.com — Earl Spencer claims he told Barbara Walters about King’s alleged Diana remark - Yahoo News UK
- www.aol.com — Princess Diana's brother reveals what sparked King Charles ...
- www.nation.com.pk — Memoir by Princess Diana’s brother flies off the shelves
-
Diana's brother claims Charles sounded 'giddily elated' after her death
Charles Spencer, Diana's brother, released a memoir alleging King Charles III sounded 'giddily elated' after Princess Diana's death in 1997. Buckingham Palace responded with a strongly worded statement rejecting these claims. Spencer also alleges the royal family ignored Diana's funeral requests and that the late Queen acted 'tetchily' toward the accident.
Why it matters
This controversy comes nearly 30 years after Princess Diana's death in a car crash in Paris. The renewed scrutiny of the royal family follows Spencer's recent BBC interview defending his accounts. Prince William has not publicly responded to the book.
What is confirmed
- Charles Spencer released a memoir, "Swan Song: Diana, My Sister," with claims about King Charles III's reaction to Princess Diana's death.
- Buckingham Palace issued a strongly worded statement rejecting Charles Spencer's claims.
- Princess Diana died in a car crash in Paris in August 1997.
Still unconfirmed
- King Charles III sounded 'giddily elated' after Princess Diana's death, according to Charles Spencer.
- The royal family ignored Diana's funeral requests, as claimed by Charles Spencer.
- Queen Elizabeth II acted 'tetchily' toward Princess Diana's accident, as alleged by Charles Spencer.
What to watch next
- Prince William's potential response to Charles Spencer's claims
- Further media appearances by Charles Spencer to discuss his memoir
- Any official statements from the royal family regarding the allegations
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (10)
- www.sbs.com.au — What we've learnt from Princess Diana's brother's explosive new book
- www.yahoo.com — Princess Diana considered becoming first lady after American politician courted her, brother claims
- www.yahoo.com — Why is Princess Diana's brother making new claims about King Charles nearly 30 years after her death?
- stylecaster.com — King Charles' Response to Princess Diana's Brother's Book - StyleCaster
- okmagazine.com — Princess Diana's Brother Makes Startling Claim About King Charles' Reaction to His Ex-Wife's Death in New....
- www.thenews.com.pk — Diana insisted Prince William and Harry knew Charles loved her, says expert
- currently.att.yahoo.com — Queen Camilla Is ‘Furious’ That ‘More Wasn’t Done’ to Stop Princess Diana’s Brother’s Bombs....
- www.deccanherald.com — What Princess Diana's brother Charles Spencer says in new book - Deccan Herald ,Latest News Today
- okmagazine.com — Princess Diana's Brother Rejects Conspiracy Theories About Her Death: 'I Just Don’t See It' - OK! Magaz....
- www.thestandard.com.hk — What Princess Diana's brother Charles Spencer says in new book - The Standard
-
Charles Spencer memoir alleges King Charles was elated by Diana's death
Charles Spencer released his memoir, "Swan Song: Diana, My Sister," on Tuesday, alleging King Charles III sounded like a "lottery winner" and was "giddily elated" after the crash that killed Princess Diana. Buckingham Palace issued a strongly worded statement rejecting these claims. Spencer also alleges the royal family ignored Diana's funeral requests and that the late Queen acted "tetchily" toward the accident. While Spencer defended his accounts in a BBC interview, Prince William has not responded to the book.
Why it matters
The memoir examines the royal family's reaction to the 1997 death of Princess Diana. These allegations create a public conflict between the Spencer family and the current British monarchy.
What is confirmed
- Charles Spencer published a memoir titled "Swan Song: Diana, My Sister."
- Buckingham Palace issued a statement rejecting the allegations in Spencer's book.
Still unconfirmed
- King Charles III "gaslit" Charles Spencer after the Palace questioned the memoir's accounts.
What to watch next
- Further official statements from Buckingham Palace
- A formal response from Prince William
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.nbcnews.com — Princess Diana’s brother reopens royal wounds as bombshell memoir goes on sale
- www.kpcw.org — New book by Princess Diana's brother prompts war of words with King Charles III
-
Earl Spencer claims King Charles was elated after Diana's death
Charles Spencer, brother of Princess Diana, claims King Charles III sounded "giddily elated" and like a "lottery winner" during a conversation following Diana's death. The Palace has rejected these claims, and Spencer says the King "gaslit" him after Buckingham Palace questioned the memoir's accounts. Spencer also alleges the royal family denied Diana's funeral requests and that the late Queen responded "tetchily" to the crash. While Spencer defends his truth in a BBC interview, Prince William has chosen not to respond to the memoir.
Why it matters
These allegations appear in a new book by Earl Spencer regarding his sister's life and death. The claims reopen long-standing tensions between the Spencer family and the British monarchy.
What is confirmed
- Charles Spencer wrote that King Charles sounded like a "lottery winner" after Diana's death.
- Buckingham Palace rejected claims that King Charles was "elated" after Princess Diana's death.
- Charles Spencer claims the royal family denied a funeral request made by Princess Diana.
- Prince William has opted for a "never complain, never explain" approach regarding the memoir.
Still unconfirmed
- Prince Philip overruled King Charles regarding their positions in the funeral procession walk.
What to watch next
- Further official responses from Buckingham Palace regarding specific funeral request claims
- Potential legal challenges or rebuttals to the memoir's contents
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (17)
- CNN — Britain’s royal family wracked by fresh turmoil after brief summer respite
- reuters.com — King Charles sounded like 'lottery winner' after Diana's death, her brother writes
- People.com — Princess Diana’s Brother Charles Spencer Says the Royal Family Denied Her Funeral Request
- NBC News — Princess Diana’s brother says King Charles sounded ‘giddily elated’ after her death
- The Washington Post — Palace rejects claims King Charles was ‘elated’ after Princess Diana’s death
- CBS News — Princess Diana's brother claims Charles sounded "like a lottery winner" after she died
- BBC — 'I'm telling the truth': Earl Spencer defends Diana book claims about Charles in BBC interview
- instyle.com — Princess Diana Wanted to Call Off Her Engagement to Prince Charles
- People.com — Charles Spencer Recalls His Reaction to Queen Elizabeth’s Offer to Restore Princess Diana’s HRH Title After Her 1997 Death
- Sky News — Earl Spencer claims late Queen responded 'tetchily' to Diana crash - as he doubles down on call with Charles
- People.com — Charles Spencer Recalls Prince Philip ‘Overruling’ King Charles Over Their Places in Princess Diana’s Funeral Walk
- bbc.com — Earl Spencer's Diana book opens old wounds royals would rather forget
Community Sentiment: How do you assess this situation?
Voice your perspective · Real-time aggregated sentiment from the Live Feeds community