Society Photographer Terence Donovan Threatened to Blackmail Princess Diana's Biographer

Society photographer Terence Donovan allegedly attempted to blackmail Andrew Morton, Princess Diana's then-secret biographer. Donovan demanded £70,000 in exchange for an iconic tiara picture of the Princess that was used in the book. Morton revealed that if the price wasn't met, Donovan threatened to expose Diana's involvement. This revelation would have jeopardized the efforts to conceal her connection with the book and negotiate her future arrangements with her husband. However, Donovan ultimately kept silent.

Diana had unknowingly included the Donovan portrait among a selection of private pictures she provided to Morton, mistakenly believing they were taken by her favorite photographer, Patrick Demarchelier. Morton recounted the incident in an interview with Radio Times, stating that the potential exposure would have eliminated any "wiggle room" Diana had in determining her future.

Terence Donovan, who tragically took his own life in 1996, had been a prominent figure in society photography. This attempted blackmail sheds light on the complex relationships and secrecy surrounding Diana during that period. The revelation adds another layer to the already captivating story of her involvement in the publication of Morton's book.

Morton's book, titled not disclosed, gained considerable attention upon release and became a bestseller. The unauthorized biography offered unprecedented insight into the life of the Princess, including her troubled marriage and her struggles within the royal family. The attempted blackmail by Donovan serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths people would go to exploit and profit from the private lives of public figures.

This incident also highlights the vulnerability of even the most influential individuals to potential blackmail and manipulation. It is a cautionary tale that resonates with both prominent figures and the general public, reminding everyone of the importance of maintaining privacy and safeguarding personal information.

Although the attempted blackmail ultimately did not come to fruition, it signifies the complex web of power, secrets, and attempts at control within the world of the British monarchy. The aftermath of Diana's involvement in Morton's book and the surrounding events continue to captivate audiences, demonstrating the enduring intrigue surrounding the late Princess.