Princes William and Harry have publicly criticized the BBC following an independent inquiry that found journalist Martin Bashir used deceitful tactics to secure his infamous 1995 interview with their mother, Princess Diana. The inquiry, led by Lord Dyson, concluded that Bashir lied to Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer, and to BBC executives to gain access to the princess.
BBC’s Failures Contributed to Diana’s Fear and Isolation
In a statement, Prince William expressed his profound sadness, stating that the BBC’s failures “contributed significantly to her fear, paranoia, and isolation that I remember from those final years with her.” He went on to say that the interview had exacerbated his parents’ already strained relationship and held the BBC accountable for the subsequent events that unfolded in his mother’s life.
Prince Harry echoed his brother’s sentiments, placing the blame for their mother’s tragic death squarely on the BBC’s shoulders. “Our mother lost her life because of this, and nothing has changed,” he stated, emphasizing the lasting impact of the interview and the BBC’s alleged cover-up.
Bashir’s Apology and Diana’s Letter
Martin Bashir, who has since left the BBC citing health reasons, issued an apology for his actions but maintained that he remained “immensely proud” of the interview itself. He pointed to a letter written by Princess Diana in December 1995, on Kensington Palace stationery, in which she stated that she had no regrets about participating in the interview.
However, the Dyson report concluded that Bashir’s deceptive methods, which included forging bank statements and spreading false information, had a significant influence on Diana’s decision to participate and the content of her interview. The report accuses the BBC of a subsequent cover-up, alleging that executives were aware of Bashir’s unethical conduct but failed to take appropriate action.
Prince Harry’s Candid Revelations in Oprah Docu-Series
The controversy surrounding the BBC interview coincides with the release of Prince Harry’s new docu-series with Oprah Winfrey, “The Me You Can’t See.” In the series, Harry opens up about his own mental health struggles following his mother’s death, revealing that he resorted to coping mechanisms such as partying and drinking to numb the pain.
He describes feeling “anger” and needing to “deal with [his] past” before he could embark on a serious relationship with Meghan Markle. Harry admits that he feared history repeating itself and that Meghan would suffer the same fate as his mother, which ultimately influenced their decision to step back from their roles as senior royals.
Meghan’s Suicidal Thoughts and Harry’s Shame
In a particularly poignant moment, Harry recounts a harrowing night when Meghan confided in him about her suicidal thoughts. He expresses shame at his initial reaction, admitting to feeling angry that they were in such a situation. The couple, he explains, felt trapped, forced to put on a brave face for the cameras while grappling with immense emotional turmoil behind closed doors.
The Duke of Sussex’s candid revelations offer a glimpse into the immense pressure and scrutiny faced by members of the royal family and the toll it can take on their mental well-being.
