Princess Diana | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 28, 2025

Who is Princess Diana?

Princess Diana, born Diana Frances Spencer on July 1, 1961, was an iconic figure known worldwide as the “People’s Princess.” She became famous not only for her royal status as the first wife of Prince Charles but also for her deep humanitarian efforts and the warmth she brought to her royal duties. Diana was born into an aristocratic family in England and became Lady Diana Spencer after her father inherited the title of Earl Spencer in 1975. Diana gained immense popularity with her grace, style, and charm, making her a beloved figure within the public consciousness.

Diana married Prince Charles on July 29, 1981, in a ceremony that captivated millions and was hailed as a modern-day fairy tale. The couple welcomed two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, but their marriage was plagued by difficulties, including infidelities on both sides and intense media scrutiny. Caught in the tumult of royal life, Diana struggled with mental health challenges, including bulimia and depression, which only intensified under the public's watchful eye. Despite her personal struggles, Diana became a symbol of compassion and charity, advocating for causes such as homelessness and HIV/AIDS awareness.

Following her divorce from Charles in 1996, Diana continued her philanthropic work and became a prominent figure in humanitarian causes. Tragically, her life was cut short when she died in a car accident in Paris on August 31, 1997, while being pursued by paparazzi. Her unexpected death led to a tremendous outpouring of grief from around the world, and her legacy as a devoted mother and humanitarian endures. Today, Diana is remembered not just as a royal but as a woman who championed the voiceless and remained a relatable figure throughout her life.

Early Life and Education

Diana Frances Spencer was born on July 1, 1961, near Sandringham, England. She was the youngest daughter of Edward John Spencer, Viscount Althorp, and Frances Ruth Burke Roche. Diana had two older sisters, Jane Fellowes and Sarah McCorquodale, as well as a younger brother, Charles Spencer, 9th Earl Spencer. The early years of her life were marked by her parents' divorce, which resulted in her father gaining custody. Diana's tumultuous childhood, described as "very unhappy" and "very unstable," greatly influenced her personality, shaping her sensitivity and compassion towards others, especially children.

Educated initially at home, Diana later attended Riddlesworth Hall School and then West Heath School, where she developed interests in music and dance. Despite her shyness, Diana emerged as a caring individual with a great fondness for children, which led her to eventually work as an assistant at Young England Kindergarten in London after completing her studies. Her childhood experiences and education laid the groundwork for her strong sense of empathy, which would later define her humanitarian efforts and public persona as the beloved “People’s Princess.”

Relationship With Prince Charles: Courtship and Engagement

Diana, Princess of Wales, first crossed paths with Prince Charles in November 1977 when she was just 16 years old. At the time, Charles was a guest at Althorp, Diana's family home, visiting her older sister, Lady Sarah Spencer. Their initial encounter left a lasting impression on Diana, and she later recalled how Charles' charismatic demeanor intrigued her. Despite the 12-year age difference, they continued to foster a friendship until their relationship deepened in the summer of 1980. Charles found comfort in Diana’s supportive nature, particularly during trying times following the death of his great-uncle, Lord Mountbatten, which further ignited Charles's interest in her as a potential partner.

Their courtship intensified, leading to an engagement that captured the world's attention. On February 6, 1981, Charles proposed to Diana at Windsor Castle, a moment that took her by surprise. Their engagement announcement was made shortly thereafter, with the couple facing significant media scrutiny. During a televised interview, when asked if they were in love, Diana confidently replied, “Of course,” while Charles offered a more ambiguous response, stating, “Whatever ‘in love’ means.” This exchange marked the beginning of their public life as a couple, setting the stage for their highly publicized wedding later that summer, which was dubbed the wedding of the century.

Princess Diana and Prince Charles’ Royal Wedding

On July 29, 1981, the world watched as Lady Diana Spencer transformed into Diana, Princess of Wales during a stunning ceremony held at St. Paul’s Cathedral. With a guest list of 2,650 people, including dignitaries and royals from around the globe, the event was broadcast to an estimated 750 million viewers. Diana arrived wearing a breathtaking taffeta gown adorned with silk and antique lace, embellished with 10,000 pearls and a sweeping 25-foot veil. The dress, designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, became one of the most iconic bridal outfits in history. Her choice to omit the word "obey" from her vows stirred significant public interest and debate.

Despite the fairy tale imagery surrounding their nuptials, cracks in the couple's relationship appeared almost immediately. The media's relentless scrutiny put immense pressure on the newlyweds, leading to a life of public performances overshadowed by private struggles. Following their wedding, Diana began to feel overwhelmed by her royal obligations, often finding herself in the spotlight while Charles receded into the background. Over the years, this imbalance, coupled with personal challenges, would contribute to the strains in their marriage, ultimately leading to their separation and divorce in 1996. The royal wedding, once viewed as the epitome of romance, foreshadowed the complexities that would define their relationship.

Sons: Life as a Mother

Diana, Princess of Wales, was not only a beloved public figure but also a devoted mother to her two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. She became a mother when William was born on June 21, 1982, followed by Harry on September 15, 1984. Diana faced challenges during her early motherhood, including postpartum depression, which greatly affected her emotional well-being. Nevertheless, she sought to break royal traditions by involving her sons actively in her life and duties. Diana famously brought baby William along on a royal tour of Australia and New Zealand when he was just nine months old, demonstrating her commitment to motherhood over protocol.

As a mother, Diana cultivated a strong bond with both of her children. She frequently expressed the importance of giving them a sense of normalcy, often taking them on outings and instilling in them a sense of compassion for others. Her efforts to raise the boys with love and empathy were evident in her involvement in various charitable activities. Diana encouraged William and Harry to understand the struggles of marginalized communities, and her dedication to humanitarian causes inspired them to carry on her legacy. Her influence continues to shape their values and commitment to charity work as they embrace their royal roles.

Divorce from Prince Charles

Princess Diana and Prince Charles officially announced their separation in December 1992, amid growing public speculation and media scrutiny regarding their troubled marriage. Following years of infidelities and emotional turmoil, both parties acknowledged the challenges they faced. Diana publicly revealed her struggles with bulimia and depression, while Charles's relationship with Camilla Parker Bowles became a point of contention. The announcement, delivered by British Prime Minister John Major in the House of Commons, marked a significant turning point, underscoring the monarchy's precarious position in the eyes of the public.

By 1996, amid escalating tensions and media frenzy, the couple's divorce was finalized. Diana retained her title as Princess of Wales but lost the style of Her Royal Highness, leading to public debate over her royal status following the split. The divorce settlement granted Diana some financial independence, but the impact on her public persona was profound. Although she navigated her post-divorce life with grace, her struggles were underscored by the loss of royal privileges and the enduring challenges of media attention.

Post-Divorce Life and Romantic Relationships

Following her divorce from Prince Charles in 1996, Princess Diana redirected her focus toward her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, while also immersing herself in various charitable endeavors. She became known for her advocacy on pressing global issues, including homelessness and the dangers of landmines, particularly during a high-profile visit to Angola. Despite the challenges of navigating life outside the royal spotlight, Diana remained immensely popular with the public. She took charge of her own narrative, using her platform to effect positive change and draw attention to causes dear to her heart.

In her post-divorce life, Diana also explored several romantic relationships, seeking emotional fulfillment after the tumultuous end of her marriage. Among her notable partnerships was a passionate affair with Hasnat Khan, a British-Pakistani heart surgeon, often described as the "love of her life." Their relationship, however, faced scrutiny from the media and tensions rooted in Diana’s status as a public figure. In 1997, she began dating Dodi Fayed, an Egyptian film producer, whose tragic death alongside Diana in a car crash in Paris marked a heartbreaking end to her life, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and dedication to humanitarian efforts.

Death and Legacy

Princess Diana tragically lost her life in a car crash on August 31, 1997, in Paris, an event that shocked the world and led to a profound outpouring of grief. At just 36 years old, she was a beloved figure known for her compassionate humanitarian efforts and genuine connection with people. The accident, which also claimed the lives of her companion Dodi Fayed and their driver, raised questions about the role of the paparazzi, as they were reportedly pursuing the couple at high speed. Investigations later found the driver responsible for the crash was under the influence of alcohol and drugs, yet conspiracy theories about the circumstances surrounding her death persist to this day.

Diana’s funeral on September 6, 1997, was a historic occasion, with an estimated 2.5 billion viewers watching the ceremony broadcast worldwide. Her brother, Earl Charles Spencer, delivered a poignant eulogy that emphasized her impact on countless lives, while Elton John famously performed a rewritten version of "Candle in the Wind" in her honor. Laid to rest at her family’s estate in Althorp, Diana’s legacy endures. The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund, established following her passing, continues to support numerous charitable endeavors, ensuring her spirit of empathy and service remains alive through the initiatives of her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry.

Funeral, Gravesite, and Legacy

Diana, Princess of Wales, was laid to rest on September 6, 1997, after a globally watched funeral that showcased the deep affection and respect the public held for her. The ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey, attended by numerous dignitaries, friends, and family. Her brother, Earl Charles Spencer, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, emphasizing her humanitarian legacy and the impact she had on millions. An estimated 2.5 billion viewers were tuned in, attentively observing a moment in history that marked the end of the life of a beloved public figure who had championed so many causes.

Diana's final resting place is on a tranquil island at her family's estate, Althorp, where she lies surrounded by water, reflecting her love for nature. The gravesite has become a place of pilgrimage for her admirers, who continue to honor her memory. To perpetuate her charitable endeavors and passion for helping the less fortunate, the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund was established after her death. This fund supported various causes such as palliative care and penal reform, ensuring Diana’s legacy of compassion and service would endure long after her untimely passing.

Portrayals in Pop Culture

Princess Diana, known as the "People's Princess," has been a significant figure in pop culture since her rise to fame in the 1980s. Her life, marriage to Prince Charles, and subsequent humanitarian efforts have inspired countless portrayals across various media. Diana's story has been depicted in films, television series, and documentaries, capturing her complex personality and enduring legacy. Notably, her marriage struggles, charity work, and tragic death have resonated with audiences, leading to a fascination that continues today.

Several actors have brought Diana to life on screen, including Serena Scott Thomas in "Diana: Her True Story" (1993) and Naomi Watts in the film "Diana" (2013). More recently, Kristen Stewart's portrayal in "Spencer" (2021) earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, highlighting the ongoing interest in Diana's life. The Netflix series "The Crown" has also featured her character, portrayed by Emma Corrin and Elizabeth Debicki in different seasons, further cementing Diana's impact on popular culture. Corrin’s performance garnered a Primetime Emmy Award nomination and a Golden Globe, showcasing the depth of Diana's influence in contemporary storytelling.