Charles Spencer’s Heartfelt Reflections: Princess Diana’s Death Was an ‘Amputation’

Charles Spencer has once again stirred public emotion with his poignant reflections on the tragic death of his sister, Princess Diana. Speaking candidly on a special edition of ITV’s Loose Women called Loose Men—an event aligned with Mental Health Awareness Week—the 9th Earl Spencer delved deep into the lingering pain that has haunted him for decades.

The main keyword, “princess diana,” surfaces naturally here, woven into a narrative that highlights the depth of familial loss and the enduring bond that shaped their shared childhood. As the world remembers Diana’s legacy, Charles’s raw emotions offer fresh perspective into the toll her absence continues to take.

Princess Diana: A Sister Remembered Through Grief and Humor

Charles Spencer’s reflection on Princess Diana was not just a recollection of a global icon, but a deeply personal narrative of a lost sibling. Appearing on Loose Men on May 15, 2025, Charles likened the loss of Diana to an “amputation,” a term that illustrates the visceral and lifelong impact of her death. “You grow up with these people… they are your flesh and blood,” he expressed, visibly moved. “And then they’re gone.”

Princess Diana, who tragically died in a car crash in Paris in August 1997, was being pursued by paparazzi at the time—an incident that not only claimed her life but left a permanent void in the royal and public consciousness. Her brother described the death of a sibling as an extraordinary kind of grief, stating he often caught himself reaching for the phone, thinking, “I must ring her and tell her something,” only to be hit with the reality that she was gone.

This particular segment shed light on the unique psychological and emotional toll of sibling loss. With Diana gone, Charles feels he has lost a piece of his childhood—shared jokes, memories, and that irreplaceable sibling bond. His two older sisters, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Lady Jane Fellowes, are much older, which further isolates his shared history with Diana.

Charles’s emotional testimony echoes across various news reflections in the wake of Diana’s death anniversary. His narrative adds a heartfelt dimension to the public’s understanding of grief and loss, showing that the wounds of 1997 remain fresh for her loved ones.

The Protective Brother: Charles Spencer’s Fierce Defense of Princess Diana

While Princess Diana became a global icon after marrying Prince Charles in 1981, to her brother Charles, she was still the young girl with whom he shared laughs and life lessons. During the Loose Men appearance, Charles recalled being a teenager when Diana stepped into the limelight and facing a growing compulsion to shield her from the intense media scrutiny.

One of the most memorable revelations came when he recounted an incident shortly before Diana’s death. A scathing article by a female journalist prompted him to pen a strongly worded letter in her defense. “I think particularly as a brother of a sister, you always want to get stuck in, really,” he said, a sentiment that resonated with viewers and added nuance to his previously public persona.

Charles became the 9th Earl Spencer in 1992, and his momentous eulogy at Diana’s funeral in 1997 remains one of the most striking parts of the public mourning. In it, he condemned the media’s mistreatment of his sister and vowed that her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, would be protected from the same fate.

This commitment to preserving Diana’s dignity and legacy lives on in his literary work, including his recent memoir, A Very Private School. In this, Charles admitted he never shared with Diana the abuse he endured at Maidwell Hall, an elite boys’ boarding school—a stark reminder of the private struggles that lie behind public facades.

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Princess Diana’s Legacy: Public Icon, Private Sister

The Global Impact of a Royal Tragedy

Princess Diana’s death sent shockwaves across the globe, triggering public mourning on an unprecedented scale. Her charitable work, her warmth, and her willingness to speak openly about mental health issues made her a beloved figure worldwide. In the aftermath, Charles’s eulogy became a rallying cry against media exploitation and a plea for empathy.

Ongoing Relevance in Mental Health Conversations

As Charles appeared on Loose Men for Mental Health Awareness Week, the discussion served as a reminder of Diana’s own advocacy for mental well-being. She was one of the first royals to openly discuss her struggles with depression and bulimia, making her a pioneer in destigmatizing mental health issues. Charles’s openness aligns with his sister’s legacy, pushing the conversation forward in today’s context.

Charles Spencer’s Memoir: Revealing Pain Beyond the Palace Walls

A Very Private School, Charles Spencer’s memoir, delves into his personal traumas and growing up under the weight of aristocratic expectations. The book, released in 2024, reveals that he never told Diana about his abusive experiences at Maidwell Hall. The emotional weight of this revelation provides yet another layer to his grief and sense of loss—what might have been shared had she lived longer?

This painful chapter shows that despite their prominence, members of the aristocracy and royal family are not shielded from human suffering. Charles’s candid approach has sparked wider discussions on child abuse, institutional responsibility, and emotional transparency among men.

Looking Back While Moving Forward

Today, Charles Spencer continues to uphold the memory of Princess Diana not just as a royal figure, but as a sister whose laughter, compassion, and spirit still echo in his life. His appearances, writings, and interviews serve as a testament to her impact—not only on the world but within the quiet confines of family.

Princess Diana may be gone, but through Charles’s voice, she lives on—vivid, beloved, and mourned. His recent reflections make it clear: grief is not a chapter that ends, but a narrative that evolves.

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FAQs

What did Charles Spencer say about Princess Diana’s death?

He described it as an “amputation,” expressing the deep and lasting pain of losing a sibling with whom he shared a close bond.

How did Charles Spencer protect Princess Diana from the media?

He often intervened on her behalf, including writing an outraged letter to a journalist who had published a harsh article about her shortly before her death.

What is Charles Spencer’s book about?

His memoir, A Very Private School, explores his personal experiences with abuse at boarding school and his emotional journey through those memories.

What legacy did Princess Diana leave behind?

Diana is remembered for her humanitarian efforts, openness about mental health, and enduring popularity as a compassionate royal figure.

Why is Charles Spencer’s recent interview important?

It offers a rare, emotional insight into personal grief and raises awareness about sibling loss and mental health, continuing Diana’s legacy in advocacy.

Did Princess Diana know about Charles Spencer’s abuse?

No, according to Charles, he never shared his traumatic experiences at boarding school with his sister Diana.