Interpreting an iconic figure like Lady Diana represents a formidable challenge, especially when the verdict comes from her own brother. Five years after the release of Spencer, the film directed by Pablo Larraín featuring Kristen Stewart, the judgment from Charles Spencer has arrived.
And while his assessment of the film was rather merciless, the words directed at the actress were a genuine surprise.
Charles Spencer slams Spencer: “The film is terrible”
During a meeting with journalist Tina Brown, organized in New York to present his book Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, Charles Spencer spoke about the numerous cinematic and television representations dedicated to his sister.
When asked if any actress had managed to convey Diana’s true personality, Spencer recalled having watched Spencer during a flight.
«I thought it was an incredible interpretation, but the film is terrible»
A blunt dismissal for Larraín‘s feature, which in 2021 had divided audiences with its intimate and heavily stylized account of the last years of Diana’s marriage to the then-Prince Charles.
Kristen Stewart has won over Diana’s brother: “She captured her spirit”
If the film disappointed Charles Spencer, the same cannot be said for its lead actress. Diana’s brother admitted to being impressed by Kristen Stewart’s ability to convey something authentic of the princess, going far beyond mere physical resemblance.
«Kristen Stewart in reality doesn’t resemble Diana much, but, my God, she managed to capture her spirit»
An important acknowledgment for the actress, who thanks to Spencer earned her first Oscar nomination for Best Actress in 2022.
Spencer also spoke about The Crown, noting, however, that he has never followed the series and thus cannot offer a direct judgment on the performances of Emma Corrin and Elizabeth Debicki, both called to portray Diana at different stages of her life.
Kristen Stewart and the bond with Lady Diana: “I can cry thinking of her at any moment”
Charles Spencer’s words arrive a few months after some particularly moving statements from Kristen Stewart herself, who had described how the role of Diana continues to accompany her even years later.
In an interview granted to The Telegraph in February 2026, the actress had confessed to feeling still profoundly connected to the princess:
«I can’t walk through London, and not even Paris, without thinking of her. All the love this woman has given… I could cry thinking of her at any moment».
Stewart had also recalled her initial doubts about Pablo Larraín‘s decision to entrust her with the role, especially given the evident physical differences between her and Diana. The director, however, was convinced that the actress possessed the right energy to portray her.
A conviction that, it seems, has found confirmation in the words of those who knew Diana her entire life.
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