Lady Di's rising popularity triggered jealousy in Prince Charles during the fourth episode of The Windsors.
Delving into the depths of the royal dynasty, the episode explores Prince Charles's life, from his childhood and strained relationship with his father to his unhappy marriage with Lady Di. His reserved and introverted demeanor portrayed him as weak, a trait unsuitable for a future king.
This disappointment was keenly felt by the Duke of Edinburgh, who sought to toughen him through a strict education at Gordonstoun boarding school, where he became a target for ridicule.
However, Prince Philip's life took a turn when he turned twenty, immersing himself in parties and encounters, with his heart set on Camilla Shand, a woman who would leave an indelible mark on his life.
Camilla, not of aristocratic origin and not a virgin, became the object of Prince Charles's affection, despite an uncertain future. His relationship with the Duke of Edinburgh showed no signs of improvement, and it was his great-uncle Lord Mountbatten who assumed a fatherly role, advising him to enjoy life until he found the right partner.
This advice transformed Prince Charles into a sought-after bachelor, attracting attention from all quarters. Amidst growing press interest in his private life, he managed to maintain a secret relationship with Camilla, despite her marital status.
As pressure mounted for Prince Charles to find a suitable wife, his parents took charge, orchestrating a meeting with Diana Spencer in 1980. Despite meeting the criteria of title, virginity, and social standing, Diana's entry into Prince Charles's life stirred media frenzy, questioning his delay in proposing and lingering affection for Camilla.
The turning point came with a letter from the Duke of Edinburgh, urging Prince Charles to make a decision promptly. Misinterpreting the message, Charles believed he was being instructed to marry Diana. Six months into their romance, they announced their engagement, though for Prince Charles, it felt more like an obligation than a desire. Diana, however, was increasingly in love, unaware of Charles's true feelings.
Their marriage on July 29, 1981, at Saint Paul's Cathedral, was marked by Diana's radiant smile despite her internal struggles. As they welcomed Prince William and later Prince Harry, their marriage remained broken. Diana, devoid of her husband's love, gained the adoration of the people for her authenticity and natural charm, casting Prince Charles into the shadows.
Lady Di's global celebrity status, evident in her memorable trip to the US dancing with President Ronald Reagan and John Travolta, exacerbated Prince Charles's jealousy. While Diana basked in the limelight, Prince Charles became a nondescript figure, intensifying the strain on their marriage and leaving Diana grappling with the challenges of her overwhelming popularity.
