Actress Ruthie Henshall has detailed a five-year secret romance with Prince Edward in her upcoming book, “The Showgirl and the Prince,” scheduled for release on July 16. According to Henshall, the relationship began in 1988 when the pair met backstage at the musical “Cats” in London, long before Edward married Sophie in 1999.
How did Ruthie Henshall and Prince Edward meet?
The relationship began in 1988 when Prince Edward was 23 and Ruthie Henshall was 20. According to Henshall’s account in her book, the meeting occurred backstage at the London production of “Cats.” At the time, Edward had recently left the Royal Marines to work for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s theater company, where Henshall played the lead role.
Henshall describes a slow progression in their romance. She writes that Edward asked for her patience, and their first kiss occurred during a picnic at the Frogmore residence after several tentative meetings. While she notes that her initial overnight stays at Buckingham Palace were platonic, the relationship eventually evolved into romantic nights at the palace, complete with love letters written on official Buckingham Palace stationery.
What was Queen Elizabeth II’s reaction to the romance?
The late Queen Elizabeth II was reportedly skeptical of her youngest son’s involvement in the theater world. According to the book, the Queen expressed hope that Edward would not “bring any chorus girls home.”
Henshall also describes her first meeting with the Queen during a tea party on the lawn of Windsor Castle. The event was attended by Prince Philip, the Queen Mother, Princess Margaret, and Sarah Ferguson. Henshall writes that she was so shocked by the encounter that she forgot to curtsy and instead shook the Queen’s hand.
How long did the secret relationship last?
Henshall states the relationship lasted for five years. This is not the first time the actress has mentioned the pairing; in 2020, during her appearance on the ITV reality show “I’m a Celebrity,” she told viewers that she and Edward were together on and off for five years.
The romance ended well before Edward’s 1999 marriage to Sophie, with whom he has two children, Louise (22) and James (18). Prince Edward has not publicly commented on these claims.
Comparison of Royal Conduct and Personal Details
While Prince Edward is often framed as the least scandalous of Queen Elizabeth II’s sons, Henshall’s memoir provides a glimpse into a more casual side of royal life. She shares specific domestic details, such as the fact that Edward’s underwear was marked “HRH Edward” so the palace staff could identify the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
The book is scheduled for release on July 16.
Did Prince Edward confirm the affair?
No, Prince Edward has not publicly commented on the allegations made by Ruthie Henshall.
When did Prince Edward and Sophie marry?
They married in 1999.
Where did Ruthie Henshall and Prince Edward first meet?
They met in 1988 backstage at the musical “Cats” in London.
What do you think about these royal revelations? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into royal history.
