West End star Ruthie Henshall has disclosed a previously private five-year relationship with Prince Edward, detailing surprise encounters with the late Queen Elizabeth II and intimate exchanges within Buckingham Palace. According to her upcoming memoir, The Showgirl and the Prince, the romance began after the Prince transitioned from military training to a production assistant role at Andrew Lloyd Webber’s theatre company in the late 1980s.
How did the relationship begin?
The romance developed after Prince Edward resigned from the Royal Marines, a move that made significant headlines in 1987. Reports from the time indicated the decision caused friction with his father, Prince Philip, who allegedly reacted with enough anger to leave his son in tears. According to Henshall, the two met while Edward was working as a production assistant at Andrew Lloyd Webber’s company. She noted that she made a “beeline” for the Prince whenever he was present, acknowledging that his royal status played a role in her initial interest.
Henshall discovered that Prince Edward had “HRH Edward” stitched into his underwear. She stated that she later understood this was a practical necessity, as the garments were laundered by Buckingham Palace staff.
What was the nature of the royal courtship?
The relationship was characterized by a desire for privacy and traditional romantic gestures. Henshall writes that the Prince wished to move slowly, sending her a handwritten letter after their first kiss to ask for patience regarding physical intimacy. According to the memoir, Edward regularly sent letters on Buckingham Palace stationery, often signing them with kisses rather than his name, and frequently gifted her freesias, which he knew to be her favorite flower. When the couple eventually became intimate in January 1989, Henshall described the Prince as “romantic and gentle.”
How did the Queen react to the actress?
Henshall’s introduction to the Royal Family occurred at Windsor Castle, where she unexpectedly encountered Queen Elizabeth II. Henshall recalled the moment of realization, noting she instinctively forgot her etiquette training. Instead of curtsying, she shook the Queen’s hand. Following this, she joined other members of the Royal Family, including Prince Philip, the Queen Mother, Princess Margaret, and Sarah Ferguson, for tea. The Queen engaged her in a conversation about horse riding after learning that Henshall had felt nervous during a lesson earlier that day.
Comparison: Public Perception vs. Private Reality
The account provided by Henshall offers a contrast to the public image of Prince Edward during the late 1980s. While news outlets focused on the controversy surrounding his resignation from the Royal Marines, Henshall’s memoir highlights a period of personal development and romance that remained largely hidden from the press. The five-year relationship concluded without significant public intrusion, a rarity for members of the Royal Family during that era.
When researching royal history, always check official biographies alongside personal memoirs to see how private accounts align with documented public timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Ruthie Henshall’s memoir be released?
The Showgirl and the Prince is scheduled for release on July 16, 2026.
