In a shocking revelation from his forthcoming memoir, Earl Spencer claims that King Charles sounded 'giddily elated' after the death of Princess Diana. The book, titled Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, is set to be published next week and has already stirred controversy with its explosive allegations.
The Phone Call That Shocked Earl Spencer
According to extracts published in the Daily Mail, Earl Spencer received a phone call from then-Prince Charles immediately after Diana's fatal car crash in Paris in 1997. Spencer alleges that Charles sounded 'giddily elated – like a lottery winner' during the conversation. This claim has sent shockwaves through royal circles and raised questions about the true nature of the relationship between Charles and Diana.
Buckingham Palace's Strong Rebuttal
Buckingham Palace issued a robust denial on Wednesday evening, stating: 'While we do not comment on books as a matter of principle, His Majesty is mindful that the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgment and colour memory in ways others do not recognise, even many years after such a loss.' The statement suggests that Spencer's recollections may be distorted by grief and the passage of time.
The Funeral Walk: A Calculated Move?
Spencer also claims that Buckingham Palace wanted Prince William, Prince Harry, and himself to walk behind Diana's coffin because Charles was 'adamant' he would walk, and officials feared public backlash. By including Diana's sons in the procession, the palace hoped to avoid insults directed at Charles. This revelation adds another layer to the complex dynamics within the royal family during that tragic period.
Key Takeaways from Earl Spencer's Memoir
- Charles's alleged reaction: Spencer claims Charles sounded 'giddily elated' after Diana's death.
- Funeral procession: The decision to have William and Harry walk behind the coffin was to protect Charles from public anger.
- Palace relief: Spencer suggests some in Buckingham Palace were 'relieved – indeed pleased' at Diana's death.
- Buckingham Palace's response: The palace dismissed the claims as potentially clouded by grief.
Comparing the Claims and Responses
| Claim by Earl Spencer | Buckingham Palace Response |
|---|---|
| Charles sounded 'giddily elated' after Diana's death. | No direct comment, but statement implies grief can distort memory. |
| Palace officials were 'relieved – indeed pleased' at Diana's death. | Denied any such sentiment. |
| Charles remarked, 'Rest assured, we'll forget her soon enough.' | Palace called the claim false. |
What This Means for the Royal Family
These allegations come at a time when the royal family is already facing public scrutiny. The memoir's release could further strain relations between the Spencers and the Windsors. It also raises questions about the enduring impact of Diana's death on the monarchy and the public's perception of King Charles.

FAQ
What did Earl Spencer claim about King Charles's reaction to Diana's death?
Earl Spencer claimed that King Charles sounded 'giddily elated – like a lottery winner' during a phone call immediately after Diana's death.
How did Buckingham Palace respond to these allegations?
Buckingham Palace issued a statement saying that the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason and affect judgment, implying that Spencer's memory may be distorted.
Why did William and Harry walk behind Diana's coffin?
According to Spencer, they walked behind the coffin because Charles was adamant about walking, and palace officials feared public abuse. Including Diana's sons was seen as a way to prevent insults.