New Documentary to Feature Unheard Princess Diana Tapes

A new documentary series titled 'Diana Unheard' is set to release five hours of previously unheard audio recordings made by Princess Diana before her death. These tapes, passed by the late princess to author Andrew Morton via her friend Dr. James Colthurst, served as the basis for Morton's 1992 book, 'Diana: Her True Story.' Diana's involvement in the book was not revealed until after her death in 1997.

The producers of 'Diana Unheard' claim the tapes cover ground similar to recent assertions made by Diana's brother, Earl Spencer, in his book 'Swan Song.' These claims by Spencer reportedly led to a public dispute with Buckingham Palace. According to interviews given to Deadline by the documentary's producers, Diana's recordings address her marriage, her sons, the line of succession, and even her relationship with Prince Andrew and Queen Camilla, then Camilla Parker Bowles. One recording reportedly includes an account of a confrontation between Diana and Camilla Parker Bowles over the then-Prince of Wales.

Kerene Barefield, Creative Director of Love Monday TV, the production company behind 'Diana Unheard,' stated that the documentary aims to "reframe the narrative around the Princess and give her a voice, almost three decades after her tragic death." Barefield suggested that the tapes present Diana as "an incredibly brave woman who had agency and knew what she wanted and how she was going to get to it," contrasting with media portrayals of her as "sad and lonely and she was manipulated."

The three-part series is slated for release next year, around the 30th anniversary of Diana's death. Buckingham Palace has previously dismissed Earl Spencer's claims, including his assertions that King Charles III was "giddily elated" by Diana's death and had remarked that "we'll forget her soon enough," attributing them to grief.

Interestingly, Love Monday TV has previously produced programs in conjunction with Buckingham Palace, including a documentary about Queen Camilla's work against domestic violence. Details regarding the worldwide broadcast of 'Diana Unheard' are expected to be revealed soon, following a planned launch at an industry event next week.

The idea for the documentary originated when Barefield spoke with author Andrew Morton. He, along with publisher Michael O'Mara and Dr. Colthurst, granted permission for the tapes to be used and will appear in the series. James Hewitt, Diana's former lover, has also been interviewed for the program. While excerpts of the tapes have been released previously, this marks the first time all recordings have been made accessible.

The documentary's three parts are titled: 'Got To Get Out'; 'You're On Your Own'; and 'Time Is Precious.' Barefield highlighted Diana's agency in getting the book published and her motivations, noting that her involvement remained secret at the time. She also mentioned that the tapes reveal aspects of Diana's childhood, indicating her drive from a young age. The final part reportedly builds towards the book's release, described as a "time bomb that is ready to explode."

Barefield emphasized that the documentary is framed as "what Diana would have done if she was still alive today. It's her documentary." However, the producers, Morton, and Colthurst may face criticism for capitalizing on the late princess's legacy, particularly given Prince William's past requests for Diana's memory to be respected and his concerns about her media collaborations during vulnerable periods of her life.

Critics might argue that Diana did not intend for the audio tapes to be made public, and her perspective might have evolved. There is also evidence suggesting Diana and the then-Prince Charles had a better relationship by the time of her death, and she wished him well. Prince Harry is also reportedly exploring ways to commemorate the 30th anniversary of his mother's death, potentially including a documentary.