Diana: In Her Own Words (Full Episode) | SPECIAL | National Geographic

National Geographic54 minutes read

Princess Diana reflects on her troubled marriage, struggles with mental health, public image, and humanitarian efforts, culminating in her tragic death and the global mourning that followed. Andrew Morton's book on Diana's life and turmoil unveiled shocking revelations about her struggles with suicide attempts and mental health, sparking controversy and intrigue.

Insights

  • Lady Diana faced childhood trauma due to her father's violence towards her mother, shaping her early years with unhappiness and emotional scars.
  • Princess Diana's struggles with mental health, media scrutiny, and marital challenges underscore the immense pressure and emotional turmoil she endured, highlighting the importance of mental health support and authenticity in the face of public expectations.

Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free

Recent questions

  • Who is Lady Diana?

    Princess Diana

  • What struggles did Princess Diana face?

    Media scrutiny, mental health challenges, and marital issues

  • What was Princess Diana's impact on society?

    Humanitarian efforts and advocacy for important causes

  • How did Princess Diana's death affect the world?

    Shock, grief, and tributes

  • What was the controversy surrounding Princess Diana's marriage?

    Marital issues, infidelity, and public scrutiny

Related videos

Summary

00:00

Lady Diana's tumultuous journey to royalty

  • Lady Diana recalls a childhood marked by her father's violence towards her mother, leading to an unhappy upbringing.
  • She recounts her surprise when Prince Charles proposed, finding the idea of marriage amusing and grown-up.
  • Lady Diana reflects on her initial interactions with Prince Charles, feeling amazed by his interest in her.
  • Despite her initial reservations, Lady Diana eventually agrees to accompany Prince Charles to London.
  • Lady Diana describes the media frenzy surrounding her relationship with Prince Charles, with photographers following her every move.
  • Lady Diana shares her feelings of being overwhelmed by the sudden attention and expectations placed on her.
  • Lady Diana narrates the moment Prince Charles proposed to her, expressing her initial disbelief and eventual acceptance.
  • Lady Diana recalls the pressure and scrutiny she faced as news of her engagement to Prince Charles spread.
  • Lady Diana discusses her struggles with the media attention and the challenges of adjusting to her new royal role.
  • Lady Diana reflects on the emotional turmoil she experienced leading up to her engagement and the public scrutiny she faced.

20:35

Princess Diana's Wedding and Motherhood Struggles

  • The speaker recalls the tension and pressure she felt during her wedding preparations, including her struggle with bulimia.
  • The speaker discusses the public's expectations of her as a fairy princess and the internal turmoil she faced.
  • The speaker reflects on her wedding day, feeling overwhelmed by the cameras and her internal struggles.
  • The speaker discusses the support she received from Prince Charles and the emotional turmoil she experienced leading up to her wedding.
  • The speaker describes her emotional state during her wedding ceremony and the pressure she felt under the public eye.
  • The speaker recalls the support she received from Prince Charles and the emotional challenges she faced during her honeymoon.
  • The speaker discusses her struggle with bulimia and the impact it had on her mental health and well-being.
  • The speaker reflects on her difficult pregnancy, including morning sickness and the pressure from the public and royal family.
  • The speaker describes the birth of her first son, Prince William, and the emotional turmoil she experienced as a new mother.
  • The speaker discusses the challenges she faced as a new mother and the strain it put on her mental health and relationship with Prince Charles.

43:45

Princess Diana's Struggles and Triumphs in Life

  • Princess Diana reflects on her marriage and the birth of her son Harry, revealing she knew Harry's gender before birth and chose his name.
  • She discusses her struggles with the press and her marriage, highlighting the impact of media scrutiny on her mental health.
  • Princess Diana opens up about her battle with bulimia and the lack of support she received from her family during that time.
  • She recounts a difficult public appearance in Wales after flooding, where she felt overwhelmed by the press attention and her emotional state.
  • Princess Diana shares her experience of seeking therapy and regaining her self-esteem, emphasizing the importance of mental health support.
  • She describes moments of confrontation with her husband and his mistress, expressing her desire for her husband's attention and affection.
  • Princess Diana recalls a pivotal moment of emotional release and transformation after a confrontation with her husband and his mistress.
  • She reflects on her personal growth and strength, citing moments like changing her hairstyle and overcoming her struggles with bulimia.
  • Princess Diana discusses the challenges of public perception and the pressure of being in the spotlight, emphasizing the need for authenticity and self-acceptance.
  • She concludes by asserting her commitment to her role as the Princess of Wales and her determination to fulfill her duties with integrity and grace.

01:04:45

Princess Diana: Tragic Life and Legacy

  • Princess Diana was delivering Prince Harry to school when a book about her marriage was discussed, revealing that the author left out strong material to protect sources.
  • The book, set to be released, claims Princess Diana made desperate cries for help through suicide attempts.
  • Andrew Morton, the book's author, defended its integrity on television, stating the motivation was to tell the truth about the crisis in the House of Windsor.
  • Buckingham Palace officials remained silent on the book's content and whether they had a copy or were examining it with top libel lawyers.
  • The book's secrecy led to high anticipation in bookshops, with claims that Diana's chronic depression and suicide attempts were due to Prince Charles' indifference.
  • At the Queen's cup Polo tournament, attention shifted to Camilla Parker Bowles, sparking jealousy in Princess Diana.
  • Princess Diana's public breakdown revealed a different side of her, contrasting with her royal composure.
  • Princess Diana announced a reduction in her public life to prioritize her children, thanking the public for their support.
  • Princess Diana's involvement with the Red Cross in Angola highlighted her humanitarian efforts and the issue of landmines.
  • The tragic news of Princess Diana's death in a car crash in France shocked the world, leading to an outpouring of grief and tributes.
Channel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatar

Try it yourself — It’s free.