Piers Morgan has announced plans for legal action in response to claims made by Earl Charles Spencer in his upcoming memoir about Princess Diana. In Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, Spencer recounts his request to newspaper editors, including Morgan, not to attend Diana’s funeral.
A Request Ignored
Spencer describes how he personally called editors, urging them to respect Diana’s privacy after years of media scrutiny. Most editors reportedly agreed, though some were initially confused. Morgan, then the editor of the Daily Mirror, allegedly showed annoyance and refused, according to Spencer’s account first seen in The Independent. Morgan denies these claims, labeling them as false and is considering legal action. Specific legal bases for Morgan’s actions remain unconfirmed, pending the memoir’s full review.
Ongoing Debate Over Media Treatment
The memoir revisits the press’s intense focus on Diana, underscoring its impact on her life leading up to her tragic death in 1997. Spencer’s portrayal of this media environment touches on two primary issues. First, his specific claims regarding Morgan’s behavior in connection to Diana’s funeral. Second, a broader critique of the media’s treatment of the Royal Family.
Allegations Surrounding King Charles
The memoir includes descriptions of interactions with King Charles following Diana’s passing. Spencer claims Charles exhibited an inappropriate demeanor during conversations, an account contested by Buckingham Palace. They suggest that grief might have influenced Spencer’s memories. Conversely, Spencer maintains the accuracy of his recollections, having shared them with others at the time. He cites support from journalist Richard Kay, who recalls Spencer’s comments about tensions with Charles.
Hypocrisy Accusations and Media Critique
Morgan has criticized Spencer’s treatment of Harry and Meghan Markle in comparison to King Charles, accusing him of hypocrisy. Spencer recently likened the media’s treatment of Harry and Meghan to Diana’s own experiences, describing a detrimental media influence. Morgan took to social media, criticizing Spencer for condemning the media while publishing a contentious book. He highlighted the irony in Spencer’s actions, noting Charles’s actual cancer battle.
The wider controversy surrounding the memoir has stirred friction with Buckingham Palace. Prince Harry has opted not to comment on the book amid a recent public appearance. Regarding this story, Newsweek has reached out for comments from Spencer, Penguin Random House, and Morgan.