Prince Harry is reportedly developing a film about his late mother, Princess Diana, a project that experts believe could deepen the rift between him and his brother, Prince William. The potential for this film to feel like "another betrayal" stems from concerns that it might exploit Diana's experiences to further Harry and Meghan Markle's own narrative.
This development comes amidst an ongoing estrangement between the two brothers, whose last public appearance together was at King Charles's coronation in May 2023. According to Kinsey Schofield, host of YouTube’s "Kinsey Schofield Unfiltered," if the film involves Meghan Markle creatively, it could be particularly sensitive given Harry's past comparisons between his wife and mother. Schofield noted that William, who knew Diana personally, might view the commercialization of their mother's story nearly 30 years after her death as "vulgar."
Christopher Andersen, author of "Kate! The Courage, Grace, and Power of the Woman Who Will Be Queen," pointed out that William and Harry previously collaborated on a documentary about Diana in 2017. However, Andersen stated that much has changed since then, and the brothers are no longer speaking. He suggested that William might see a new documentary, especially one based on unreleased tapes, as a "posthumous invasion of their mother's privacy."
Andersen speculated that such tapes could contain sensitive information that might embarrass the royal family, potentially rehashing Diana's struggles with Charles's relationship with Camilla, her conflicts with palace officials, her battles with bulimia, and even suicide attempts. This prospect, he believes, would likely horrify King Charles and Queen Camilla, as well as Kate Middleton, particularly if it casts a shadow over significant family events.
British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard echoed concerns about mistrust within the royal family regarding Harry and Meghan Markle, suggesting the Palace aims to prevent further damage to the institution. Chard indicated that the Sussexes' ventures in California have not been successful, and there was a hope they would reintegrate into British life without seeking further publicity. She noted that Harry has been connecting with Diana's brother, Charles Spencer, and that any filming involving Diana is seen as potentially lucrative for Netflix, especially if it is sensational.
Reports have also surfaced that Meghan Markle might narrate the project, which Chard believes would further exacerbate the strain on William's relationship with his brother. British royals expert Hilary Fordwich added that William is likely disturbed by the unverified reports, especially if the film includes previously unknown anecdotes that could be perceived as attacks on the then-Prince Charles.
Fordwich also suggested that Harry might be aligning with the Spencer family to forge an identity separate from the Windsor institution, emphasizing Diana's deeper roots in English aristocracy compared to the Windsors' more recent German dynastic origins.