Earl Spencer claims Prince Charles was extremely jealous of Diana’s star power during their 1983 Australia and New Zealand tour

Earl Spencer Alleges Charles Was Jealous of Diana’s Popularity During 1983 Tour

Earl Spencer’s new book, Swan Song: My Sister, Diana, claims Prince Charles resented Diana’s popularity during their 1983 Australia and New Zealand tour, with the then-prince allegedly “extremely jealous of Diana’s star power,” 1News reported. The allegations align with a dramatized scene in The Crown, where Charles, played by Josh O’Connor, shouts, “This was supposed to be my tour!”

Context of the 40-Day Tour and Tensions

The 40-day tour occurred amid growing republican sentiment in Australia and debates about the nation’s ties to the Commonwealth. Despite these challenges, Diana’s “huge popularity with the Australian crowd had riled her husband,” Spencer wrote.

Royal Family Rejects Claims, Cites “Grief Clouded Reasoning”

Buckingham Palace dismissed Spencer’s assertions, stating, “His Majesty is mindful that the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgement and colour memory in ways others do not recognise.” The palace declined to comment further, adhering to its policy of not addressing books directly.

Media Comparison to Diana’s Treatment of Harry and Meghan

In a BBC interview, Spencer suggested the media’s coverage of Harry and Meghan Markle mirrored its treatment of Diana.

1News Coverage Highlights Royal Family Dynamics

1News reported on the 1983 tour’s impact, including images of Diana with Prince William and a “buzzy bee” toy at Government House in Auckland. The outlet also covered unrelated stories, such as a tiger attack at a UK zoo and Donald Trump's proposal to rename the Pacific.

FAQ

What did Earl Spencer claim about Charles and Diana’s 1983 tour?

Spencer alleged Prince Charles was “extremely jealous of Diana’s star power” during the 1983 Australia and New Zealand tour, citing her “huge popularity with the Australian crowd” as a source of tension.

How did Buckingham Palace respond to the allegations?

The palace rejected the claims, stating, “His Majesty is mindful that the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason,” without directly addressing the specific accusations.

What other criticisms did Spencer make in his book?

Spencer criticized the royal family for “a lack of obvious care” for Harry after Diana’s death, suggesting he was “allowed to spin out of control” without adequate support.

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