Former King of Spain Juan Carlos has publicly addressed long-standing rumors regarding an alleged affair with Princess Diana in his upcoming memoir, co-authored with French writer Laurence Debray. In an interview with Le Figaro Magazine, Juan Carlos emphatically denied ever having a romantic relationship with the late princess, despite their close interactions during summer vacations at Marivent Palace.
The revelations come nearly four decades after Diana first visited the Spanish royal residence with her then-husband, King Charles III, and their sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. At the time, Diana’s marriage was already showing signs of strain, which may have led her to seek comfort in her interactions with Juan Carlos. The former king’s attentiveness reportedly drew Diana closer, prompting speculation about their relationship.
In his memoir, Juan Carlos reflects on the dynamics of their time together. He stated, “The king was very attentive to her, perhaps too much so,” according to Roberto Devorik, Diana’s former adviser, who spoke to Vanity Fair España. Devorik noted that Diana had innocently flirted with Juan Carlos, akin to how any woman might interact in a social setting.
Rumors of an affair intensified following the publication of Lady Colin Campbell’s book, “Diana in Private: The Princess Nobody Knows,” which emerged in 1992. The book suggested a romantic liaison between Diana and Juan Carlos during their summers in Marivent.
Despite Diana’s acknowledgment of extramarital relationships before her passing, she never specifically mentioned an affair with Juan Carlos. Her friend and biographer, Andrew Morton, once remarked that Diana had expressed disdain for Juan Carlos, viewing him as a playboy. Additionally, her bodyguard, Ken Wharfe, revealed in a 2016 interview that Diana found Juan Carlos to be excessively friendly, leading her to discuss the situation with her husband at the time.
In the same interview, Juan Carlos reflected on his relationship with his distant cousin, Queen Elizabeth II. He disclosed that he consulted her regarding his decision to abdicate the Spanish throne in favor of his son, Felipe VI. According to Juan Carlos, Queen Elizabeth II disapproved of his choice, stating, “It is not done! A king dies with his boots on.”
As the memoir prepares to launch, Juan Carlos’ statements may provide closure to the lingering questions surrounding his connection with Princess Diana. While the past continues to spark interest, his denial of any romantic involvement marks a significant moment in the narrative of both royal families.
