Charles Spencer says King Charles III gaslit him with a harsh book

**Charles Spencer Accuses King Charles III of Gaslighting Over Diana Memoir Claims**

Princess Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, has publicly confronted King Charles III after the monarch’s response to accusations in the former royal’s forthcoming memoir.

The dispute centers on a quoted remark the king allegedly made following Diana’s 1997 death, which Spencer says was dismissive and “condescending.” The book, set to hit shelves on September 22, will detail Spencer’s views on his sister‑in‑law and the royal family.

## Background & Context

In late summer, Charles Spencer released an excerpt from his upcoming memoir, *Swan Song: Diana, My Sister*. The piece alleges that Charles III, then 77, sounded elated after Princess Diana’s death in a Paris car crash that killed her at 36.

Spencer claims the king said, “we’ll forget [Diana] soon enough,” a statement he describes as “not straight” and “condescending.” The assertion is set against the backdrop of Diana’s funeral in 1997, where her sons Prince William (then 15) and Prince Harry (then 12) walked beside their father and uncle in a state‑funeral procession.

William later reflected on the event in a BBC documentary, noting it was “one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” highlighting the weight of duty versus personal grief.

The royal family’s response came through Buckingham Palace.

A palace spokesperson stated that while they do not comment on books as a matter of principle, “His Majesty is mindful that the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgement and color memory in ways others do not recognize even many years after such a loss.” The statement was released earlier this week and was perceived by Spencer as an eye‑opening acknowledgment that did not directly address his allegations.

## What Happened

During a Sunday interview on *Good Morning America* on September 20, Charles Spencer expressed frustration over what he calls being “gaslit” by the king.

He said, “It’s not every day you’re gaslit by a king, but I was really upset with that because I thought it was very, not only condescending, but not straight.” Spencer emphasized that his own comments were “straight and true,” countering the king’s alleged response.

In a separate appearance on *CBS Sunday Morning*, he reiterated that he is not interested in cultivating relationships with members of the British monarchy, adding, “I’m absolutely not bitter.” Despite these remarks, Spencer clarified that he holds no bad blood toward Charles and maintains respect for the Crown.

The king himself did not issue a personal statement regarding the allegations. Instead, the palace’s message was issued on his behalf, leaving the direct question of whether the quoted remark was made unaddressed. Spencer noted that the palace statement “doesn’t say he didn’t say it either,” indicating his surprise at the ambiguity.

The memoir’s release date is set for Tuesday, September 22, which may bring further scrutiny to the claims.

## What Happens Next

As *Swan Song: Diana, My Sister* approaches its publication date, readers and observers will likely examine both the alleged kingly comment and Buckingham Palace’s response in greater detail.

Spencer has indicated he remains disengaged from the royal family, stating he has no current relationship with any monarch members and does not intend to develop one. Meanwhile, the royal household maintains its policy of not commenting on books.

The unfolding narrative will hinge on how the memoir’s full content is received and whether the king’s alleged remarks are corroborated by other sources.

The story underscores the enduring sensitivity surrounding Princess Diana’s legacy and the complex interplay between personal grief and public duty within the monarchy.

Whether Charles Spencer’s account reshapes public perception remains to be seen, but the forthcoming book promises to add a new chapter to an already intricate family saga.