Nostradamus – the 16th-century French astrologer and seer – made numerous predictions, some of which people believe relate directly to the British royal family. But how accurate were they?
Predictions about the royals
Born in 1503, Nostradamus became known for his mysterious quatrains in Les Prophéties (1555), which many interpret as foretelling future events. Over the centuries, he’s credited with foreseeing the Fire of London, both World Wars, the moon landing, and even 9/11.
Among the predictions linked to the royals is one that some claim foretold Queen Elizabeth II’s passing: “Queen Elizabeth II will die, circa 22, at the age of around 96.” The Queen died on September 8, 2022, aged 96—though some experts dispute that this was truly from Nostradamus.
Another passage is interpreted by some as predicting Princess Diana’s death: “The last but one of the prophet’s name will take Diana for his day of rest.” This has been linked to Dodi Fayed, son of Mohammed Al Fayed, who died alongside Diana in 1997.
Perhaps most talked about is a quatrain that, according to author Mario Reading, hints Charles could be forced to abdicate:
“Because they disapproved of his divorce, a man who later they considered unworthy; The People will force out the King of the islands; A man will replace who never expected to be king.”
While the “unworthy” king could be Charles, the identity of the “unexpected” successor remains speculation—some wonder if it could point to Prince Harry.
A ‘living Nostradamus’ weighs in
Modern psychic Athos Salome, nicknamed the “living Nostradamus,” has also made recent predictions about the royal family. He foresees a rocky phase for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, suggesting they may stay together for their brand rather than love, though he doesn’t predict a formal divorce.
Salome also believes Harry and King Charles could manage a limited reconciliation, urging Harry to return to the UK—even without Meghan—to help mend relations and repair his public image.
Harry as ‘heir’?
One of Nostradamus’ more intriguing yet unproven royal predictions is that Prince Harry could one day take the throne ahead of his brother William. The quatrain hints at someone with “no mark of a king” becoming ruler—potentially referring to Harry, currently fifth in line. For now, this remains speculation, as William and his children are ahead of him in succession.
