Royal family secrets to be exposed in new documentary

Royalists are in for a treat when a new two-part documentary about the Royal family airs in the United States later this week.

The documentary The Story of the Royals, which is a joint venture between ABC in the United States and People magazine, is set to give an inside account of the world’s most talked about family from people who have interacted one-on-one with the royals over the years. From Princess Diana’s private secretary to royal photographers and the Queen’s maid of honour to royal authors, the four-hour television event promises to document the fascinating lives of the British royals.

In special previews published by People magazine, Patrick Jephson, Princess Diana’s private secretary, describes the first time he met the princess as “mind-blowing” and that it exceeded every expectation.

“She was both intimidating as a princess, as an amazingly statuesque figure, and yet fabulously warn and approachable and funny and quick,” he says.

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Jephson explains that although Diana was “inexperienced” and “naïve”, there was something about her that was “uplifting” and “inspiring”.

Lady Jane Rayne Lacey, who was the maid of honour at the Queen’s coronation, speaks about the confusion she felt when she was picked to be part of the Queen’s big day. She details her childhood of attending birthday parties and receptions at Buckingham Palace and details just how heavy the Queen’s train was – even with six girls carrying it. Photographer Harry Benson also reveals that the Queen doesn’t sleep with her dogs because they snore.

It seems like dogs have always been a huge part of the family, with Cornelia Guest, goddaughter of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, explaining that the Duke was always fascinated by her dogs when he would visit her.

Meanwhile, David Wiseman, Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, details Prince Harry’s “cheeky side” and that the 33-year-old enjoys a joke.

“But there are only very few situations where he can let that shine, and one of those is when he’s around the lads,” Wiseman says, while explaining that the young royal isn’t ashamed of his position of privilege.

Royals author Penny Junor describes Prince William as “charming”, although suggests he is also awkward at times. Knowing the two brothers well, she says there isn’t an awkwardness with Prince Harry.

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The Story of the Royals airs on ABC in the United States on Wednesday evening, although no airdate has been giving in Australia yet.

What do you think? Do you like documentaries about the royals?