James Hewitt is a British former cavalry officer in the British Army who gained notoriety for his romantic relationship with Diana, Princess of Wales. Over the years, Hewitt has been the subject of numerous rumours, speculations, and controversies. His relationship with Diana, as well as persistent rumours claiming he is Prince Harry’s biological father, have kept him in the public eye. This article aims to shed light on James Hewitt’s life, and his relationship with Princess Diana, and debunk some of the most popular myths surrounding him.
Early Life and Career
James Lifford Hewitt was born on April 30, 1958, in Derry, Northern Ireland. He grew up in Kent, England, and attended Millfield School in Somerset before enrolling at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Hewitt followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the British Army, where he served as a cavalry officer in the Household Cavalry, which is the ceremonial guard of the British monarch.
Throughout his military career, Hewitt distinguished himself and achieved the rank of Major. He was involved in the Falklands War and later received the Commendation for Bravery during his service. However, despite his notable military career, Hewitt is best known for his personal life rather than his professional achievements.
Relationship with Princess Diana
James Hewitt’s life took a dramatic turn in 1986 when he began an affair with Princess Diana, who was then married to Prince Charles. The two met at a party, and according to reports, Diana approached Hewitt for horse riding lessons. This professional relationship quickly turned romantic.
Their relationship lasted for several years and spanned some of the most tumultuous moments in Diana’s marriage to Prince Charles. Diana, in later interviews, described her relationship with Hewitt as one of the few sources of emotional support during a very challenging period in her life.
In the infamous 1995 BBC Panorama interview with Martin Bashir, Princess Diana confirmed her relationship with Hewitt, candidly admitting, “Yes, I adored him. Yes, I was in love with him. But I was very let down.” Despite her confession, the relationship eventually ended, as Hewitt was posted abroad for military duty.
The Controversy: Is James Hewitt Prince Harry’s Father?
One of the most enduring rumors surrounding James Hewitt is the claim that he is Prince Harry’s biological father. The speculation arose because of Hewitt’s red hair, a feature also possessed by Prince Harry. However, there is no evidence to support this claim.
In response to these rumors, Hewitt himself has publicly denied the allegations. He explained that his relationship with Diana began in 1986, two years after Prince Harry’s birth in 1984. Moreover, close friends and associates of Diana, including her former bodyguard Ken Wharfe, have also refuted these rumors, calling them “unsubstantiated” and “untrue.” The official narrative remains that Prince Charles is Prince Harry’s biological father, and any claims otherwise are speculative at best.
Life After Diana
Following the end of his relationship with Princess Diana, James Hewitt faced a series of personal and professional challenges. He retired from the military in 1994 and turned to other ventures, including writing and running a bar in Spain.
Hewitt co-authored the book Love and War with Anna Pasternak in 1999, which detailed his affair with Princess Diana. The book was widely criticized for its perceived betrayal of Diana’s trust, and Hewitt was accused of capitalizing on their relationship for financial gain.
In the years that followed, Hewitt largely stayed out of the public eye but would occasionally make headlines due to health issues or rumors regarding his connection to the British Royal Family. In 2017, he suffered a heart attack and stroke but recovered after intensive treatment.
James Hewitt in the Media
Hewitt’s story has been told and retold through numerous media outlets, television shows, and documentaries. His relationship with Princess Diana, as well as the rumors surrounding Prince Harry’s paternity, have been the focus of tabloid fodder for decades.
The dramatization of Princess Diana’s life in media, such as in Netflix’s The Crown, has also reignited interest in the people who were closely associated with her, including Hewitt. Though he is now a more private figure, James Hewitt remains a subject of public curiosity due to his role in one of the most high-profile love triangles in modern history.
FAQs
Who is James Hewitt?
James Hewitt is a former British cavalry officer best known for his affair with Princess Diana during her marriage to Prince Charles.
When did James Hewitt meet Princess Diana?
Hewitt met Princess Diana in 1986, and their romantic relationship lasted for several years.
Was James Hewitt Prince Harry’s father?
No, there is no evidence to support the claim that James Hewitt is Prince Harry’s biological father. Both Hewitt and close associates of Diana have denied these rumors.
How long was James Hewitt’s relationship with Princess Diana?
Their relationship lasted for several years, beginning in 1986 and ending in the early 1990s.
What did James Hewitt do after his military career?
After retiring from the British Army in 1994, Hewitt engaged in various ventures, including writing and running a bar in Spain.
Did James Hewitt write a book about Princess Diana?
Yes, Hewitt co-authored a book titled Love and War in 1999, which detailed his relationship with Princess Diana.
What is James Hewitt doing now?
James Hewitt has largely stepped away from public life and is believed to be living privately. He has faced health issues in recent years, including a heart attack and stroke in 2017.
Did Princess Diana admit to her affair with James Hewitt?
Yes, in a 1995 BBC Panorama interview, Diana admitted to her affair with Hewitt, describing him as someone she adored but felt let down by.
How has James Hewitt been portrayed in media?
James Hewitt has been a subject of numerous media portrayals, often depicted in the context of his affair with Princess Diana. He has been featured in documentaries, interviews, and dramatizations such as The Crown.
Did James Hewitt serve in the Falklands War?
Yes, Hewitt served in the Falklands War as a cavalry officer and was awarded a Commendation for Bravery during his military career.
Has James Hewitt ever confirmed rumors about being Prince Harry’s father?
No, James Hewitt has consistently denied rumors about being Prince Harry’s father, and there is no credible evidence to suggest otherwise.
How did the public react to James Hewitt’s relationship with Princess Diana?
Public reaction was mixed, with some viewing him as a confidant and emotional support for Diana during a difficult time in her marriage, while others criticized him for profiting from their relationship by writing a book.
What was the significance of James Hewitt’s relationship with Princess Diana?
Hewitt’s relationship with Diana was significant because it highlighted the emotional strain within her marriage to Prince Charles. Their affair was one of several relationships Diana had outside her marriage, underscoring the difficulties she faced in the royal family.
Why do people believe James Hewitt is Prince Harry’s father?
The speculation arose due to similarities in physical appearance, particularly their red hair. However, this rumor has been widely debunked by both Hewitt and those close to Princess Diana.
What health issues has James Hewitt faced?
In 2017, James Hewitt suffered a heart attack and stroke but made a recovery after treatment.
Conclusion
James Hewitt remains a figure shrouded in mystery, myth, and media intrigue. His relationship with Princess Diana is remembered as one of the few sources of happiness for the princess during a troubled time in her life. Despite the many rumours that have persisted, particularly regarding Prince Harry’s paternity, there is no credible evidence to suggest that Hewitt is Harry’s father.
Over the years, Hewitt’s public image has been shaped by tabloid gossip, his own disclosures, and the portrayal of his affair in popular media. While he may have stepped away from the public eye, his connection to one of the most beloved figures in modern history ensures that his name will always carry a certain level of fascination.
To read more, Click here
