Before Princess Diana’s iconic marriage to Prince Charles, her older sister Lady Sarah Spencer had a romantic connection with the future king. Born in 1955, Sarah was the eldest of the Spencer siblings and played a close role in royal circles. Their relationship sparked rumors she might become Charles’s bride.
The pair were often seen together in the late 1970s, including at the Royal Ascot and Althorp estate. However, their romance fell apart early in 1978 following a candid interview Sarah gave to journalists. In it, she denied any engagement and candidly spoke of her struggles with underage drinking and anorexia. She also made clear she would only marry for love, not rank.
Prince Charles, known for his temper, was reportedly furious at Sarah’s disclosures, especially as the interview damaged public perception. Sarah later attempted to downplay the interview’s impact, but the relationship ended soon after.
Sarah went on to marry Neil Edmund McCorquodale in 1980. Notably, she introduced Charles to her younger sister Diana, who then captivated the prince’s heart and became his future wife. Sarah and Diana remained close throughout their lives, and Sarah acted as a trusted member of Diana’s inner circle.
What might have been if Sarah had married Charles remains one of the great royal “what if” stories.
