In August, ABC will air a two-night, four-hour documentary focusing on the life of Princess Diana. The documentary will be made with People magazine, airing to commemorate the 20 year anniversary of Diana’s life.
The Hollywood Reporter revealed the details of the documentary.
The documentary will include interviews with those who knew her best as well as leading Diana experts, which will be interwoven with archival footage of the Princess of Wales, who later became known as “the People’s Princess.” The broadcast will also examine how Diana and her legacy have remained relevant in the years since her tragic passing.
Maura Mandt, an Emmy winner who has produced several of ESPN’s ESPY Awards shows, has been tabbed as the executive producer of the film.
I’m hoping this film examines some of the more controversial aspects of Diana’s life, including her divorce of Prince Charles, the rumors of affairs, and the questionable circumstances surrounding her death, but this quote leaves me skeptical that her life won’t just be whitewashed.
“Even 20 years after her untimely death, Princess Diana’s legacy continues to impact our world,” said Robert Mills, ABC’s senior vp alternate series, specials and late night. “Our special will honor her memory and all the good that she did in her tragically brief life. Our partners at People are perfect to tell this story as they’ve extensively covered her life throughout the years.”
ABC is thriving with original documentaries like this one, including ESPN’s O.J.: Made in America and the more recent Truth and Lies: The Menendez Brothers. The Diana documentary seems more “biopic” than “true crime,” but it’s still a worthy topic that if done properly, could be well worth our time.
