Princess Diana, widely known as the “People’s Princess,” remains one of the most admired members of the modern British royal family. Her charity work, style, and commitment to her sons continue to inspire millions around the world.
Donald Trump, long before his presidency, was well known for his real estate empire, public persona, and celebrity relationships. Over the years, there has been public interest in comments he made about Princess Diana—some of which have been widely reported in reputable media outlets.
This article takes a factual look at the public record of what has been reported about Donald Trump’s remarks on Princess Diana, relying on reputable sources and avoiding speculation or unverified anecdotes.
Princess Diana and Her Divorce
Diana, Princess of Wales, separated from Prince Charles in 1992, with their divorce finalized in 1996. Following their separation, Diana focused on her sons, charity work, and public engagements. She was especially known for her advocacy around landmines and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Her compassionate approach and willingness to connect personally with marginalized groups earned her significant public respect.
Sources:
- BBC News: Timeline of Diana’s Life
- The Diana Award
Donald Trump’s Comments on Princess Diana
Donald Trump has spoken publicly about Princess Diana on multiple occasions. One of the most widely cited instances was his 2000 appearance on the “Howard Stern Show,” where he was asked if he would have dated Diana. He responded affirmatively.
These comments were later criticized in the press for being in poor taste, especially given Diana’s tragic death in 1997.
Additionally, during the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign, Trump denied pursuing Diana romantically. In an interview with Piers Morgan, he dismissed the idea that he had repeatedly called her or sent her unwanted gifts, calling such stories “so false.”
Sources:
- Factbase: Trump’s Howard Stern Interviews
- Newsweek: Trump Denies Pursuing Diana
Selina Scott’s Account
One of the most frequently cited claims about Trump’s supposed interest in Diana comes from British journalist and presenter Selina Scott. In 2015, Scott wrote a piece for The Sunday Times (UK) describing Trump’s behavior toward Diana following her divorce. She claimed he sent her large quantities of flowers and suggested he pursued her.
Scott also alleged that Diana found Trump’s attention uncomfortable. This account has been widely reported in the media, but it remains Scott’s own recollection and has not been independently corroborated by other first-hand sources.
Sources:
- The Sunday Times (UK), via The Independent
Trump’s Comments After Diana’s Death
After Diana’s death in 1997, Donald Trump continued to mention her occasionally in media appearances. In a 1999 interview with Howard Stern, he repeated that he found her attractive and would have dated her.
These remarks have been criticized for their timing and tone, given the immense public mourning for Diana at that time. However, there is no public record or evidence that Diana reciprocated any such interest.
Sources:
- Factbase Archive of Trump Interviews
- BBC: Diana’s Funeral and Public Mourning
Diana’s Public Image
Princess Diana remains admired for her charity work and her approach to her royal duties. She used her platform to champion causes that were then considered sensitive, including the fight against HIV/AIDS stigma.
Her famous 1987 handshake with an AIDS patient helped change perceptions of the illness. She was also a strong advocate for banning landmines, visiting Angola with the HALO Trust in 1997.
Sources:
- The Guardian: Diana’s Landmine Campaign
- BBC News: Diana’s Charity Legacy
Donald Trump’s Public Life and Celebrity Culture
Donald Trump was a prominent figure in New York real estate and U.S. celebrity culture for decades before becoming president in 2017. He frequently appeared in tabloid media, cultivated a flamboyant image, and made headlines with his business ventures and personal life.
His high-profile marriages, social connections, and public remarks often attracted press coverage. Comments about celebrities, including members of the British royal family, were part of his broader media strategy.
Sources:
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Donald Trump Biography
- BBC News: Trump’s Media Persona
Diana’s Family Response to Trump’s Comments
Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, has occasionally spoken publicly about protecting his sister’s legacy. In 2023, Spencer criticized the inclusion of Diana’s name in a promotional context for a Trump book collecting letters from famous figures.
Spencer’s objection was widely reported in the press and highlighted ongoing sensitivity around Diana’s legacy and public references to her, even decades after her death.
Sources:
- BBC News: Charles Spencer Criticizes Trump
The Importance of Responsible Reporting
Public figures, especially members of the British royal family, are often the subject of rumors, speculation, and sensational headlines. It’s important to distinguish between well-sourced, verifiable accounts and unconfirmed or exaggerated claims.
Princess Diana was one of the most scrutinized people of her era, and her tragic death at 36 remains a defining moment in recent royal history. Coverage of her life and legacy benefits from respectful, evidence-based reporting that honors her charitable contributions and personal dignity.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s comments about Princess Diana over the years have drawn media attention and criticism for their tone and timing. While Trump has spoken publicly about finding Diana attractive, there is no credible evidence that she reciprocated or that they had any personal relationship beyond public interactions.
Journalists and historians continue to study Diana’s life with respect for her role as a mother, humanitarian, and iconic public figure. Her enduring legacy includes her commitment to breaking taboos, championing vulnerable communities, and reshaping what it meant to be a modern royal.
