Nearly three decades after the tragic death of Princess Diana, her younger brother, Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer, has finally broken his long-held silence about his beloved sister in a way that has deeply moved and surprised many. Known for being fiercely protective of Diana’s memory, Charles recently opened up about the profound impact her loss has had on his life and the lasting void it continues to leave.
In a rare and emotional interview, Charles described Diana’s death as akin to an “amputation.” He explained how losing her was like losing a vital part of himself — a bond that was inseparable and irreplaceable. “I would often find myself wanting to call her, to share something funny or important, only to be reminded that she was no longer there,” he shared. This candid expression of grief stunned many listeners, highlighting the depth of his pain and the enduring nature of sibling loss.
Charles also reflected on their shared childhood, painting a picture of a close-knit relationship. Growing up together at Althorp, he recalled the playful moments and the strong connection that made Diana not only a sister but also a confidante and friend. Despite the enormous public attention surrounding her life, Charles emphasized that Diana was first and foremost family — someone whose presence shaped much of who he is today.
The Earl has always been a vocal advocate for preserving Diana’s legacy, particularly after her death in 1997. During her funeral, he delivered a poignant eulogy that publicly challenged the media’s treatment of Diana and vowed to protect her sons, Princes William and Harry, from similar intrusion. This protective streak continues to this day, as Charles remains involved in efforts to honor her memory with dignity.
More recently, Charles has also spoken out about the controversial Panorama interview Diana gave in 1995. He revealed how he was manipulated by journalist Martin Bashir, who used deceitful tactics to secure the exclusive. Calling the experience “grooming,” Charles has pushed for accountability and justice, shedding light on the darker side of Diana’s final years.
The release of a new book, Dianarama: Deception, Entrapment, Cover-up: The Betrayal of Princess Diana, which Charles has supported, aims to expose further details about the BBC’s role in that scandal. It promises to reveal new information that could reshape public understanding of the events surrounding Diana’s famous interview.