Earl Charles Spencer, brother of the late Princess Diana, has released a new memoir titled *Swan Song: Diana, My Sister*, nearly three decades after her death in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997. The book, which goes on sale worldwide this week, contains a series of personal recollections and explosive claims regarding the royal family, particularly targeting King Charles III, Diana’s former husband.
Spencer, 62, previously vowed in a 1998 interview that he would never profit from his sister’s death, describing the idea as “so low it’s inconceivable.” However, estimates suggest he could earn up to £10 million ($18.7 million) from the book’s sales, which has stirred public debate about his motivations. In response, Spencer maintains that financial gain was not his primary consideration, framing the book as a “final word” and a tribute to his sister’s memory.
The memoir revisits contentious moments surrounding Diana’s death and ensuing events, including Spencer’s account of two phone calls with Charles shortly after the tragedy. He alleges that the then-Prince of Wales sounded “giddily elated, like a lottery winner” during the initial call, a description the palace denies. A subsequent call, Spencer claims, saw Charles lose his temper and say, “We’ll forget her soon enough,” an assertion Buckingham Palace has dismissed as a misremembering influenced by grief. Spencer insists he is “telling the truth” and criticizes the palace’s denial.
One of the memoir’s most controversial allegations is that Diana confided in Spencer that she intended to divorce Charles, accusing him of being "in love with his valet." Spencer acknowledged this claim lacks direct evidence or verification but included it to present what he describes as an honest portrayal of his sister.
Spencer’s public confrontation with the royal family has intensified recently, marked by a high-profile interview with the BBC, granting rare insights into his perspective. This interview, along with events such as an upcoming appearance in New York, suggests his engagement on the topic will continue despite earlier indications that the book would serve as his final commentary.
Reactions within royal circles portray a mix of sadness and frustration. Sources indicate King Charles, aged 77 and undergoing cancer treatment, feels more saddened than angry about Spencer’s renewed criticisms. Public sympathy for the monarch remains significant, particularly given the ongoing challenges facing the royal family, including internal disputes involving the younger generation.
Earl Spencer’s memoir arrives as the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death approaches, a milestone that continues to evoke strong feelings globally. While supporters of Spencer view the book as an important personal testimony, critics question the timing and nature of his revelations, particularly the inclusion of unsubstantiated claims. The debate underscores the enduring public fascination with Diana’s legacy and the complex dynamics within the royal family.
