Princess Charlotte and the Echoes of Diana: A Resemblance Noticed by Many
Princess Charlotte, the daughter of Prince William and Princess Catherine, has drawn attention for her resemblance to her late grandmother, Princess Diana. While personality comparisons are subjective, many royal watchers and experts have pointed out visual and behavioral similarities between the two.
The “Spencer Stare”: A Familiar Expression
One expression often highlighted is the so-called “Spencer Stare”—a slightly downward gaze with an upward look through the eyelashes, sometimes paired with a shy smile. This look was commonly associated with Diana, especially in her early royal years. Observers have noted that Charlotte occasionally displays a similar expression during public appearances, including major events like King Charles’s coronation. Media outlets such as The List, The Sun, and Express have showcased side-by-side photos comparing the two.
Physical Similarities
Commentators frequently mention that Charlotte resembles both Princess Diana and Prince William. Features such as her eye shape, jawline, and facial expressions are often compared to childhood photos of her grandmother. Some also note similarities with Queen Elizabeth II. Royal fans on social media regularly share collages showing Charlotte’s likeness to the Spencer side of the family.
Prince William Keeps Diana’s Memory Alive
Prince William has publicly spoken about making sure his children know about their grandmother. In a 2017 interview with GQ, he said, “We’ve got more photos up around the house now of her and we talk about her a bit and stuff.” In the 2017 ITV documentary Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy, William also said, “We’ve got enough photos around the house of her to be able to talk about her. It’s hard because obviously Catherine didn’t know her, so she cannot really provide that level of detail.”
He has also described Diana as someone who would have been a “nightmare grandmother,” meaning in the most affectionate sense—playful, loving, and always getting involved.
Diana’s Legacy
Princess Diana passed away on August 31, 1997, following a car crash in the Pont de l’Alma tunnel in Paris. She was with her companion Dodi Fayed, their driver Henri Paul, and bodyguard Trevor Rees-Jones. The incident sparked global mourning, and her memory remains central to the modern royal narrative. William and Harry have both emphasized the importance of honoring her memory through their personal and public lives.
While it’s impossible to know how much of Diana’s personality Princess Charlotte may inherit, the resemblance in certain expressions and features is something many find touching. Through the stories shared by Prince William and the values passed on within their home, Diana’s legacy clearly remains a part of the next generation.