Their wedding was on July 29, 1981, but the night before, Diana was anxious. At Clarence House, Charles unexpectedly gave her a gift with a secret note inside.
The note contained advice and a surprising confession from Charles, who was 12 years older than 20-year-old Diana.
Left Princess Diana ‘devastated’
Charles sent Diana a signet ring with a note: “I’m so proud of you… just look ’em in the eye and knock ’em dead.” But the night before their wedding, he shocked her by admitting he didn’t love her.
Diana’s astrologer, Penny Thornton, said Charles didn’t want to enter the marriage on a false promise. This devastated Diana, who even considered not going through with the wedding.
About 750 million people worldwide watched their wedding.
‘Mistake’ marrying Princess Diana
Though they seemed happy, Charles wasn’t sure about marrying Diana. Royal author Penny Junor said Charles thought it was a mistake but felt it was too late to stop.
“A year after the wedding, Prince William was born, then Harry.”
In a 1985 letter, Diana shared a sweet glimpse of their boys’ early bond: “William adores his little brother and showers him with hugs and kisses, barely letting the parents near!”
Beautiful letters on Harry & William
Princess Diana’s letters revealed that Prince Harry was often “constantly in trouble” at school. She also shared the joy of being a mother and the difficult times ahead.
Despite royal life, Diana made sure William and Harry had normal childhood moments. She even sneaked them out of the palace for fast food.
Her chef recalled Diana saying, “Cancel lunch for the boys, I’m taking them to McDonald’s.” When he offered to cook burgers, she replied, “No, it’s the toy they want.”
Diana and Charles separated in 1992 and divorced in 1996. A year later, the nation mourned her tragic death in a car accident in Paris.
Passed away in 1997
Princess Diana died in a tragic car crash in Paris in 1997, leaving her sons, William and Harry, motherless. Surgeon MonSef Dahman, who tried to save her, said they fought hard but couldn’t save her.
After her death, Charles reportedly realized how much he truly loved Diana. Her friend Simone Simmons said Charles only understood real love after she was gone.
Princess Diana will always be remembered. Rest in peace.
