Earl Spencer has revealed why he decided to write his memoir, Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, which was released on Tuesday. The Earl, who is Princess Diana's youngest sibling, said he decided to write the book about a year ago after being approached to participate in other projects about the late princess.
Anniversary plans and documentary talks
In 2027, the 30th anniversary of Diana's passing will be marked, and rumours have started to circulate about how the Royal Family will remember her. Prince Harry is reportedly in talks about making a documentary about his mother for the anniversary, although there has not yet been any official confirmation. It is understood that Harry wants to honour Diana's legacy “in the most meaningful way” and has allegedly approached a number of her friends and relatives about taking part in a potential programme, including Earl Spencer.
The Earl has revealed in his memoir that he deliberately chose to write a book rather than appear as what he described as a “talking head” in one of the many productions being planned about his sister. He said he feared documentaries could be driven by a “flawed” agenda set by producers.
Book's success and impact
Before the book was even officially out, it was already racing up the Amazon best-seller chart. The BBC reports that the book is likely to be the "most significant" royal book since Prince Harry's 2023 memoir, Spare, and Andrew Lownie's 2025 book Entitled, which doomed Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's reputation.
Harry's reported plans for a personal documentary are likely to add another layer to tensions within the Royal Family, after years of high-profile revelations about the Sussexes' relationship with the Prince of Wales and other members of the family.
A source close to Harry told the Mirror: “The Duke has discussed a number of possible projects to mark the 30th anniversary of his mother Diana, Princess of Wales's passing, and is still considering the most meaningful way to honour her legacy.”
