Charles Spencer | Writing Diana’s Eulogy, Boarding School & Surviving Abuse

CONTENT WARNING This episode contains discussion of childhood sexual abuse and trauma. Viewer Discretion is advised. If you or someone you know has been affected by childhood sexual abuse, support is available at oneinfour.org.uk This week's guest is Charles Spencer: the writer, broadcaster, and heir to the Spencer family title and estate at Althorp, where his sister, Diana, is buried. In this unmissable conversation, Charles talks to Gyles about his childhood, the breakdown of his parents' marriage, and his mother's sudden and shocking departure from the family home. He talks about his three sisters, and his close relationship with Diana. He talks about his schooldays, and in particular his harrowing experience at Maidwell Hall prep school - this episode does include Charles's account of the corporal punishment that took place there and his own experience of serious sexual abuse by a staff member. He talks about his happier time at Eton. And finally, he talks about the eulogy he gave at Diana's funeral and the extraordinary effect it had. This is a fascinating, unflinching, and deeply moving conversation. Many thanks to Earl Spencer for being our guest on Rosebud. Charles Spencer's book, A Very Private School, is available here: https://charles-spencer.com/bookshop/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Charles Spencer and Early Childhood Memories 02:15 - Family Background and Life at Sandringham 04:32 - Parents' Marriage and Mother's Departure 08:57 - Father's Character and Parenting 12:37 - Siblings and Nannies 17:20 - Relationship with Diana and Parents' Divorce 20:54 - Traumatic Prep School Experience 33:05 - Impact of Abuse and Path to Healing 44:55 - Eton, Diana's Engagement, and Career 58:41 - Diana's Legacy, Funeral, and Reflections #gylesbrandreth #rosebudpodcast #celebritybiography #Charlesspencer #Princessdiana