Prince William Declines Princess Diana Film Offers Amid Prince Harry's Documentary Rumors
The Prince of Wales reportedly wishes to avoid a public rivalry with his brother over tributes to their late mother.
Prince William has reportedly turned down multiple offers to participate in films about his mother, Princess Diana, as speculation mounts about Prince Harry's own documentary plans. The Prince of Wales has declined "several offers to make or appear in documentary tributes" ahead of the 30th anniversary of Diana's death.
According to The Times, William, 44, is keen to avoid a situation where he and his brother, Prince Harry, might be seen as being in competition. Sources close to William suggest that his public tributes to Diana during the 20th anniversary of her death in 2017 served as his public "catharsis." The approaching 30th anniversary is described as a "difficult situation" for him, with friends indicating he remains "really emotional" about his mother's passing.
William has not yet decided how he will commemorate his mother, and his plans may involve a private or a formal observance.
Princess Diana died in a high-speed car crash in Paris in August 1997 while being pursued by paparazzi. She was 36 years old.
Meanwhile, rumors persist that Prince Harry is planning a documentary about their mother. Page Six previously reported that the Duke of Sussex has been in discussions with his uncle, Charles Spencer, who recently released a memoir about Diana. A royal journalist suggested that Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, are planning a Diana film, potentially with Spencer as a central figure.
Spencer's memoir noted that he had declined numerous requests to appear in documentaries about Diana, including one from a "nephew," though he did not specify which brother. A source also told The Telegraph that Harry has approached some of Diana's friends for a potential film. An insider stated that Harry is "still considering the most meaningful way to honor her legacy during this important anniversary year" and is exploring various project ideas.
The alleged film by Harry and Meghan's Archewell Productions is expected to be distributed by Netflix.