British broadcaster Piers Morgan has recalled an extraordinary lunch he shared with Princess Diana at Kensington Palace, but a claim attributed to her former personal chef suggests the late royal may have privately held a very different opinion of the journalist.
Morgan, who was a newspaper editor at the time, has previously described his meeting with Diana as one of the most memorable encounters of his life.
According to reports, however, former royal chef Darren McGrady has claimed that Diana privately referred to Morgan as a “jerk.”
Diana’s private view of Morgan
Diana was widely known for her friendly and engaging interactions with journalists, although accounts from people who worked closely with her have suggested that she also held strong private opinions about members of the media.
McGrady, 64, who worked for the royal family and later cooked for Diana, is reported to have offered a different perspective on the princess’s relationship with Morgan.
According to a claim cited by Radar, McGrady said: “Princess Diana called him a jerk.”
The remark contrasts with Morgan’s own recollection of the meeting, which he has described in glowing terms.
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Morgan recalls extraordinary Kensington Palace lunch
Morgan has previously said the lunch at Kensington Palace was the “most extraordinary meal” of his life and recalled Diana speaking openly about various aspects of her personal life.
Prince William, who was 13 at the time, was also reportedly present. According to Morgan’s account, the young prince cheekily asked whether he could have a glass of wine.
The encounter has resurfaced as Morgan remains involved in a public dispute with Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, over Spencer’s memoir Swan Song: Diana, My Sister.
Dispute over Diana photographs
Spencer has apologised for previously claiming that Morgan was partly responsible for the publication of intrusive photographs showing Diana exercising in a leotard at a gym.
The dispute has brought renewed attention to Morgan’s long association with the British media and his interactions with members of the royal family.
While Morgan has spoken positively about his memorable meeting with Diana, the account attributed to McGrady presents a contrasting version of what the princess may have privately thought of the journalist.
