Broadcaster Piers Morgan has announced plans to pursue legal action against Earl Spencer over claims made in the latter’s recent book. The dispute centers on Earl Spencer’s portrayal of Morgan’s behavior during the period surrounding Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997.

In the book, Earl Spencer describes Morgan, then editor of the Daily Mirror, as reacting with displeasure when he was asked not to attend the funeral. Morgan disputes this account, stating that the book defames him by presenting a false and damaging image of his conduct. He characterized the portrayal as “demonstrable lies” and described the depiction as “the most despicable manner imaginable.”

Morgan further contended that much of the information in the book is easily refuted. He highlighted a specific example involving photographs of Princess Diana at a gym, which Earl Spencer alleges Morgan published. Morgan noted that the images were actually published by the Sunday Mirror on November 7, 1993, more than a year before he joined the Daily Mirror in October 1995. This detail, Morgan asserted, undermines the credibility of the claims against him.

The disagreement underscores ongoing tensions related to the public narratives about Princess Diana and those close to her. Earl Spencer, Diana’s brother, has been a vocal presence in recounting aspects of her life and legacy, while Morgan’s journalistic role during that period has come under scrutiny.

At this time, Earl Spencer has not publicly responded to Morgan’s announced legal action. The case may potentially escalate as both parties assert sharply contrasting versions of events from nearly three decades ago.