Ruthie Henshall, a West End actress and singer known for her role in the musical Cats, has publicly shared details of a five-year relationship with Prince Edward that preceded his marriage. The relationship began when Henshall was 20 and Edward was 23, developing quietly due to the prince's concerns about media attention.

Henshall described the courtship as a “slow-burn seduction” that included regular Sunday walks around the palace grounds. She recalled intimate moments such as Edward wearing underwear labeled “HRH Edward,” writing her letters on official Buckingham Palace stationery, and addressing them with kisses rather than his signature to maintain discretion. According to Henshall, Edward showed a considerate and calm demeanor, often making her tea and hosting dinners at Buckingham Palace.

During their time together, Henshall revealed that she was undergoing psychiatric treatment for childhood sexual abuse and found a sense of emotional relief through her relationship with Edward. She was introduced to members of the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth, during afternoon tea at Windsor Castle.

The relationship ultimately ended reportedly because Henshall was unwilling to give up her performing career. Edward met Sophie Rhys-Jones in 1993 and married her in 1999. The couple holds the titles Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and have two children. Representatives for Prince Edward and Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the matter.