Hollywood icon Kurt Russell has opened up about a personal and poignant chapter from his past, revealing how he once provided a sanctuary for the late Diana, Princess of Wales, and her two young sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. The actor shared this intimate story during an appearance on The Jonathan Ross Show, where he also reflected on his enduring relationship with actress Goldie Hawn and his ongoing passion for acting.
A Royal Retreat at Russell's Property
Russell recounted meeting Princess Diana at the royal premiere of the film Backdraft in August 1991. During that event, he found himself seated between Diana and the then-Prince of Wales, Charles. Sensing the immense pressure she faced from the paparazzi, Russell extended a heartfelt offer. "I said, 'If you ever want to go somewhere that's pretty under control, we'll work it out – let me know,'" he told Ross.
Some time after that initial meeting, Diana took him up on his invitation. She brought Prince William and Prince Harry to one of Russell's properties, where they stayed for a week. "She brought the two boys and they stayed there for a week and had a wonderful time," Russell said. He emphasized that he and his family were not present during their visit, allowing the royals complete privacy.
Lasting Memories and Sweet Recollections
The actor noted that Diana expressed her gratitude through "really nice cards and things like that." More significantly, Prince Harry has fondly remembered the trip in subsequent encounters with Russell over the years. "I've seen Harry a number of times since then and he always remembers and he's very sweet – he always remembers it as one of the really fun times they had," Russell shared.
With a touch of pride, Russell added, "I think it's a great thing – the future king of England (William) was sleeping in my son's room." While he did not specify the exact location, Russell is known to own a ranch in Colorado, USA, which may have been the setting for this royal respite.
Reflections on a 43-Year Relationship with Goldie Hawn
Beyond the royal anecdotes, Russell spoke warmly about his long-term partnership with actress Goldie Hawn. The couple first met in 1966 while working on a Disney film, which was Hawn's debut movie. They reconnected years later during the production of Swing Shift.
When asked about the secret to their lasting bond, Russell effused, "It is amazing. She is amazing. She is one of the great people on the planet." On the topic of marriage, he remained coy, telling Ross, "You never know," leaving the possibility open-ended.
No Plans to Retire from Acting
At 74 years old, Russell shows no signs of slowing down in his career. He admitted that while actors occasionally contemplate retirement, "there is something about acting, it never gets old." He is currently starring in the new Paramount+ drama The Madison, a role he finds particularly rewarding. "The Madison show is very different, it's the first time I'm playing someone very like myself – I like that a lot too," he explained.
Other Highlights from The Jonathan Ross Show
The episode also featured an eclectic mix of guests. Talking Heads frontman David Byrne discussed his collaboration with singer Olivia Rodrigo, who "reached out to me, which was a very nice surprise." Byrne also praised artists like Spanish singer Rosalia and Lily Allen, noting that Allen's latest album, inspired by her divorce from actor David Harbour, is "amazing."
Additional guests included The Sky At Night host and space scientist Dame Maggie Aderin, comedian Sara Pascoe, and US singer-songwriter Noah Kahan, who delivered a live performance in the studio.
The Jonathan Ross Show airs on Saturday at 9.25pm on ITV1 and ITVX, offering viewers a blend of celebrity insights and entertainment.
