In a striking defence of the monarchy he once served, Princess Diana's former butler and confidant, Paul Burrell, has launched a vehement critique of Netflix's acclaimed series, The Crown. The royal insider claims the show's dramatic interpretation of events would have left the late Queen Elizabeth II 'shattered'.
Burrell, who served the Royal Family for over a decade, stated that Her Majesty would have been 'devastated' by the programme's artistic licence and its depiction of private family moments she held dear.
A Royal Perspective on Fact vs Fiction
Speaking from a position of intimate knowledge, Burrell emphasised that the Queen was a deeply private individual who cherished the truth above all else. He argued that the series' blending of fact with fiction for dramatic effect crossed a line she would have found profoundly distressing.
'The Queen believed in truth, she was the truth,' Burrell asserted, highlighting the fundamental clash between the monarch's values and the show's narrative choices.
Defending The Monarch's Legacy
Burrell's comments extend beyond personal offence, touching on the broader implications for the Royal Family's historical legacy. He expressed concern that a generation of viewers might accept the dramatised version of events as historical fact, potentially distorting public perception of the late Queen's character and reign.
The former royal servant pointed to specific storylines and character portrayals that he believes misrepresent the individuals involved and the complexities of their roles within the institution.
The Weight of Royal Service
Having experienced the immense pressure and scrutiny of life within the royal household, Burrell's critique carries a unique weight. His defence offers a poignant insight into the potential real-world impact of popular culture on a family that remains largely unable to publicly defend itself against such portrayals.
This intervention adds a significant voice to the ongoing debate about the responsibilities of filmmakers when depicting living memory and recent history, particularly when it involves individuals who are no longer able to speak for themselves.
