Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer and brother of the late Princess Diana, has released a memoir, *Swan Song*, in which he revisits the circumstances surrounding his sister’s death nearly three decades ago. The book, described by Spencer as a “brother’s loving tribute,” also contains a series of controversial and unsubstantiated claims that have already sparked debate.
In the memoir and a recent interview, Spencer recounts his conversations with then-Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, on the day of Diana’s fatal car crash in 1997. He describes the future monarch’s tone as unexpectedly light and “giddily elated,” a characterization that has been met with skepticism. Spencer acknowledged this portrayal during the interview, admitting uncertainty about the disparity between his initial written description and the more measured video account, in which he described the King’s tone as “a lightness” that jarred him.
Spencer also alleges that, days after Diana’s death, King Charles III became angry during a phone call, reportedly stating, “We’ll forget her soon enough.” Buckingham Palace has responded by suggesting that “fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgment and colour memory in ways others do not recognise,” implying that these claims may not be reliable. Spencer, however, maintains the accuracy of his account and suggested that the King’s emotionally charged eulogy at Diana’s funeral—where he said she “will never be extinguished from our minds”—could be interpreted as a response to such sentiments.
Perhaps the most sensational claim presented in *Swan Song* is Spencer’s assertion that Diana confided in him that she planned to divorce King Charles, alleging that “my husband is in love with his valet.” Spencer has provided no evidence to substantiate this allegation, nor has he pursued further verification. When questioned about the lack of proof, he replied that the book’s purpose was rooted in honesty toward his sister, leaving interpretation to readers.
The memoir also touches on the ongoing struggles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with the media, an issue Spencer connects to the hardships Diana endured during her lifetime. Harry has been involved in numerous legal actions against media organizations over the past decade, challenging what he sees as invasive and damaging coverage.
Charles Spencer acknowledged that *Swan Song* represents his final public commentary on the subject, citing an awareness of mortality and a desire to close this chapter of his life. While some view the book as a heartfelt tribute, others have criticized it for providing unverified and potentially damaging claims, particularly regarding King Charles III. Spencer’s portrayal reignites long-standing tensions surrounding Princess Diana’s legacy and the complex dynamics within the royal family.