The Crown and its creator, Peter Morgan, are facing criticism from Queen
Elizabeth II's former press secretary, Dickie Arbiter, who served during the
period depicted in Season 6. Arbiter deems the portrayal of Princess Diana's
death in the show as "insensitive" and accuses Morgan of taking "dramatic
license gone bonkers."
Particular scorn is directed at scenes involving Prince Charles (Dominic West)
informing Diana's sons of her, Princes William and Harry, of her death.
Arbiter, in an interview with Deadline, described the portrayal as unnecessary
and insensitive, considering the raw emotions surrounding Diana's tragic
passing of her.
Arbiter specifically disputed scenes depicting Charles discussing Diana's
return de ella in a Harrod's van with her mother de ella, calling it "absolute
nonsense." He emphasized that the portrayal did not align with reality and
that arrangements, such as bringing Diana's body home from France, were
promptly agreed upon, with the Queen taking an active role.
The depiction of Diana's funeral preparations also drew criticism from Arbiter. I have clarified that the decision for a public ceremony under the auspices of Buckingham Palace was made by Diana's brother, Charles Spencer, not the Queen.
While The Crown creators have stated their intention to handle Diana's death with care, Arbiter's criticism reflects a viewpoint that the sensitivity and accuracy of such depictions are crucial, especially considering the continued emotional impact on the individuals involved and the public.
