A previously unseen photograph of Princess Diana and David Bowie smiling together at a charity concert in 1987 has recently been released, offering a rare glimpse into the past of one of the most iconic royal figures of the 20th century. The image, which has been hidden for decades, was taken at a time when Diana was 25 years old and at the peak of her public fame.
This photograph, captured by renowned photographer Denis O’Regan, has now been made public as part of a new biography of David Bowie. It offers a fascinating look at the princess, who was attending the Wembley Stadium charity concert in London, where David Bowie performed that evening.
The release of this photograph has raised questions about why it was kept hidden for so long and the role it played in controlling Princess Diana’s public image.
The 1987 Concert: A Snapshot of an Iconic Moment
The year was 1987, a time when Princess Diana was not just a royal figure but a cultural icon. Her fashion choices, her charity work, and her high-profile marriage to Prince Charles captured the public’s imagination around the world. On that particular evening, Diana attended a charity concert organized by promoter Harvey Goldsmith to support a cause she cared deeply about. The headliner was none other than rock legend David Bowie.
Photographer Denis O’Regan, who had previously worked with Bowie and other famous musicians, was invited to the event to document the performance. As part of the evening’s proceedings, a photo opportunity was suggested between Princess Diana and David Bowie. Diana, always graceful but conscious of her image, was reportedly unsure whether the rock star would agree to the photo. But Bowie, known for his charismatic and easygoing nature, agreed to pose with the princess, and the photograph was taken.
Why Was the Photo Kept Hidden?
It is widely believed that the Palace may have opted not to release the image immediately due to the ongoing media speculation around Diana’s relationship with Major James Hewitt at the time. At first glance, this may seem puzzling, especially considering that Diana and Bowie were beloved figures at the time. However, the request to suppress the image had less to do with the individuals involved and more to do with the context of the evening.
Princess Diana had arrived at the concert with Major James Hewitt, a man who would later be linked to Diana in the press due to rumors of an affair. At the time, these rumors had not been publicly confirmed, and the palace was keen to avoid any images that could fuel speculation. Major Hewitt, who was not well known to the public at that point, had made a point of staying out of the photographers’ sight, and the palace did not want to risk adding more fuel to the rumor mill.
Photographer Denis O’Regan decided to honor the palace’s request not to publish the photo, later commenting in an interview that he was not aware of the affair at the time and had no reason to believe the photo would cause any issues. However, due to the sensitive nature of the moment and his respect for the royal family’s wishes, O’Regan refrained from sharing the picture.
Sources:
- Shutterstock – Princess Diana Archive
- BBC News – Royal Family Archives
- Denis O’Regan Archive
The Fashion Controversy: Diana’s Choice of Leather Pants
In addition to the photo’s hidden history, the evening sparked some controversy related to Princess Diana’s fashion choice. Diana was known for her impeccable taste in fashion, often setting trends and influencing style globally. However, on this occasion, Diana’s choice of black leather pants raised eyebrows within the royal family and the public.
Many critics felt that the leather pants were too casual for a royal event, and Diana faced some backlash for her attire. However, Diana later explained her decision in interviews and in her biography, stating that she wanted to dress in a way that allowed her to connect with her audience, many of whom were younger and more fashion-forward. She emphasized that she wanted to be relatable and not seem distant from the people she was supporting.
Diana’s fashion choices, especially in the 1980s, were sometimes a subject of public scrutiny. Yet, over time, her style became iconic and celebrated for breaking traditional norms and embracing modernity.
Source:
- Royal.uk – Diana’s Fashion Legacy
The Relevance of the Photo Today: A Glimpse into Diana’s Personal Life
After almost 40 years, the photograph is now being shared publicly as part of a David Bowie biography, offering new insights into Princess Diana’s life outside the strict royal image. It shows a more relaxed and personal side of the princess, who is often remembered for her formal duties and public engagements.
The release of the photograph has sparked interest from both royal fans and music enthusiasts. The image of Diana and Bowie, two icons in their respective fields, serves as a reminder of the cultural impact Diana had not just as a royal but also as a public figure deeply involved in humanitarian work and social causes.
The photo now adds to the public’s understanding of Diana’s social interactions and her efforts to build bridges between different sectors of society. Her presence at a charity concert for rock fans underscores her willingness to connect with diverse groups.
Sources:
- David Bowie Biography – Official Release
- The Guardian – Diana’s Humanitarian Work
The Photo’s Release in Context: Changing Views on Royal Image Control
The release of the photo comes at a time when attitudes toward royal image control are evolving. Over the years, the British monarchy has faced increasing public scrutiny, especially with the rise of social media and the transparency it offers. Figures like Prince William and Princess Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, have embraced more modern approaches to engaging with the public and the media. The image of Princess Diana, meanwhile, is frequently revisited as part of her ongoing legacy of breaking royal tradition.
By finally releasing this photo, there is a sense that the public is being offered a more authentic glimpse of Princess Diana’s life during the late 1980s, a period where her image was still being carefully curated by the palace.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Princess Diana
The newly released photograph of Princess Diana and David Bowie offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the personal life of one of the most beloved royals in modern history. While the photo was once hidden to protect the royal image, its release now serves as a valuable historical artifact, shedding light on Diana’s efforts to balance her royal duties with her personal relationships and public engagements.
As we look back on Diana’s life and her cultural influence, this moment in time—captured alongside one of rock music’s most iconic figures—reminds us of her enduring legacy and the continued fascination with her personal and public story.
