William and Kate Opt Out of Royal Row, Anniversary Events
The Prince and Princess of Wales will not publicly engage with controversy surrounding Earl Spencer's book or participate in a documentary marking 30 years since Diana's death, royal sources indicate.
Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, have decided not to publicly engage with the controversy surrounding Earl Spencer's recently released book about Princess Diana, nor will they participate in any documentary marking the 30th anniversary of Diana's death. Royal sources state the couple will maintain a private stance on the matter, particularly regarding the memoir which has reportedly caused damage to King Charles.
William is reportedly "furious" about the book, especially after his uncle claimed to have spoken with him since its release. However, the Prince of Wales and his wife are focusing on their royal and charitable duties, and their team will not engage with any aspect of Earl Spencer's book. This position is expected to remain unchanged as the memoir continues to generate public discussion globally.
Unlike their joint appearance in the 2017 ITV documentary "Diana, Our Mother: Her Life And Legacy" for the 20th anniversary, William has opted against participating in similar commemorative programs for the upcoming milestone in 2027. Prince Harry, meanwhile, is understood to have approached some of Diana's friends and family, including his uncle Charles, about potentially participating in a commemorative film.
Earl Spencer has been actively promoting his book, "Swan Song: Diana, My Sister," through television interviews in the United States. During these appearances, he reiterated a claim that Charles told him Diana would soon be forgotten after her death, an assertion he described as "shocking." Spencer linked this to a significant disagreement regarding the decision for William, then 15, and Harry, then 12, to walk behind their mother's coffin in the public eye.
Regarding his relationships with his nephews, Earl Spencer told CNN that he remains available as an uncle and noted that Harry had stayed with him and his family in July. He stated, "I'm there if needed, but I'm not in anyone's way."
Kensington Palace has declined to comment on the book. Buckingham Palace issued a rare statement suggesting that Earl Spencer's recollections might be influenced by grief. King Charles is reportedly "apoplectic" about the book's contents.
Prince William, who was 15 when his mother died in a Paris car crash in August 1997, had been carefully considering his involvement in anniversary programs. He reportedly held private discussions with BBC director-general Tim Davie, but ultimately decided against appearing on screen, partly to avoid further conflict with his estranged brother, Harry. One source suggested William does not want himself and Harry to be "pitted against each other."
Royal author Omid Scobie has claimed that while Harry wishes to reconcile with his father and brother, the 30th anniversary of his mother's death will not impact this hope. Scobie also suggested that King Charles now has a "warmth" towards the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, but stated that the Duke's relationship with Prince William is unlikely to improve. He further commented that Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has "very little to do" with the relationship between the brothers, despite speculation that she could act as a peacemaker.