New Documentary to Feature Unheard Princess Diana Tapes

A new documentary titled 'Diana Unheard' is set to feature five hours of audio tapes recorded by Princess Diana before her death. These recordings could provide insight into sensational claims made recently by her brother, Earl Spencer, concerning King Charles.

The tapes were originally given by Diana to her friend, Dr. James Colthurst, who passed them to author Andrew Morton. They formed the basis of Morton's 1992 book, 'Diana: Her True Story,' though Diana's involvement was not revealed until after her death in 1997.

Producers of 'Diana Unheard' suggest the tapes cover some of the same ground as Earl Spencer's recent book, 'Swan Song,' which led to public exchanges between him and Buckingham Palace. According to interviews with Deadline, Diana discusses her marriage, her sons, the line of succession, and Prince Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein. She also recalls a story about an alleged confrontation with Camilla Parker Bowles (now Queen Camilla) over the then Prince of Wales.

Kerene Barefield, Creative Director of Love Monday TV, the production company, stated their aim is to "reframe the narrative around the Princess and give her a voice, almost three decades after her tragic death." Barefield countered the common media portrayal of Diana as "sad and lonely and she was manipulated," saying the tapes reveal "an incredibly brave woman who had agency and knew what she wanted and how she was going to get to it."

The three-part series is scheduled for release next year, around the 30th anniversary of Diana's death. It is expected to be uncomfortable for Buckingham Palace, which had previously dismissed Earl Spencer's claims about King Charles's reaction to Diana's death as "clouded by grief."

Love Monday TV has a history of producing programs in conjunction with Buckingham Palace, including a documentary about Queen Camilla's work combating domestic violence. Details regarding worldwide broadcasters for 'Diana Unheard' are expected to be announced soon following an industry launch next week.

The idea for the documentary emerged after author Andrew Morton appeared on another Love Monday TV show. Morton, publisher Michael O'Mara, and Dr. Colthurst have granted permission for the tapes to be used and will appear in the program. James Hewitt, Diana's former partner, has also been interviewed.

While some excerpts from the tapes have been heard previously, this marks the first time all recordings have been made accessible. The documentary's three parts are reportedly titled: 'Got To Get Out,' 'You're On Your Own,' and 'Time Is Precious.'

Barefield highlighted Diana's agency in releasing the book and her reasons for doing so, noting that her involvement was kept secret at the time. She also mentioned that the tapes reveal aspects of Diana's childhood and her drive from a young age.

The production is anticipated to draw criticism for potentially "cashing in" on Diana's legacy, particularly given Prince William's past requests for her memory to be left in peace. Concerns have been raised about the timing and nature of her media collaborations during vulnerable periods of her life. There is also speculation about how Diana might have felt about the tapes' public release had she been alive today, with some suggestions that her relationship with Prince Charles had improved by the time of her death.

Prince Harry is also reportedly exploring ways to mark the 30th anniversary of his mother's death, including a possible documentary.