This week’s new documentary reveals how Prince William was comforted by the Duke of Edinburgh during Diana’s funeral 24 years ago.
Philip: Prince. Husband. Father is scheduled to air Tuesday 9pm on ITV. This intimate peek into Philip’s daily life gives you a glimpse of his marriage to the Queen. There are colour clips of them as newlyweds and more serious moments.
Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince Harry, and Prince Harry were with Princess Diana at her funeral, which took place on 6 September 1997. The young royals were 15 and 12.
Martin Palmer spoke in documentary. He co-founded The Alliance of Religions and Conservation alongside Prince Philip. Martin Palmer said that William was quietly consoled by the Duke of Edinburgh, touchin’ his back even though he didn’t think anyone could see him.
According to the Telegraph, he explained that Prince Philip wanted to ensure the future Duke of Cambridge (now 39) and the Duke of Sussex (now 37), did not grow-up in dysfunctional families.
ITV’s new documentary shows how Prince William Prince William was comforted by the Duke of Edinburgh. This happened during Princess Diana’s funeral on September 6, 1997.
‘There’s a moment where they go under the Horseguards Parade arch where it’s quite clear that Prince Philip – and I asked him about this he said, “Yes, I didn’t think the cameras could see us” – at that point he turns to William and comforts him,’ Martin said.
‘You’ve just got to watch that moment and realise here is a grandfather who is trying to help his young, very vulnerable grandson struggle through this awful awful moment,’ he added.
He said, “He was a part of dysfunctional families and knew how it felt to be one. He tried to prevent that from happening to his grandchildren.”
Martin said that it wasn’t the Duke’s plan to let the young boys follow their mother behind her coffin.
Concerned, Prince Philip offered his support to the grief-stricken Grandsons of Prince William by being present behind Diana’s coffin.
Prince Philip offered support and walked with the boys in his funeral.
His biographer, Gyles Brandreth, said the Duke was not meant to take part, but did it as an act of grandfatherly kindness.
They were to be accompanied by their father, Prince of Wales and uncle Earl Spencer behind Diana’s hearses.
Ingrid Seward, a royal author, said William wasn’t keen to walk the first time. However, Philip said, ‘I will walk if I walk’. The Sun reported that this was what Philip said in April.
“At first William Flatly Refused” [to walk during the funeral]. Charles begged him to go with them.
“Prince Philip was a part of the debate and William eventually agreed to participate – with the condition that his grandfather walk beside him.”
‘Philip reportedly said: “It’s about the boys. They’ve lost their mother”,’ she added.
Prince William (and Prince Harry) reflect upon their mother’s funeral in the BBC Documentary Diana: 7 Days 2017.
Harry and William with their grandfather, the Duke of Edinburg.
William described how it was difficult for him to balance being Prince William with having to fulfill his bit and the private William, who wanted to cry after he lost his mother.
Harry later stated that no child should ever be required to follow their mother behind the coffin. In 2017, Harry said: “Generally speaking, I do not have an opinion about whether or not it was correct.” I’m glad that I was there. It is something I’m very grateful for.
Also, the Duke of Edinburgh helped to console princes following their mother’s death.
Tina Brown wrote The Diana Chronicles 2011 and said that he provided them with ‘gruff tenderness, outdoor activities such as stalking and hiking’ to keep them tired.
Prince Harry, Prince William and Prince William were both present at the funeral of Prince Edward in April. They had been following their cousin Peter Phillips to his coffin after he passed away peacefully.
Philip: Father, Prince, Husband and Father will air at 9pm ITV Tuesday.