In 1993, during an ambitious skiing trip in Austria, Princess Diana’s former bodyguard, Ken Wharfe, found himself in the midst of one of the most perilous moments of her career. This dramatic encounter sparked a series of events that ultimately led to Wharfe’s resignation from his position as her personal security detail.
The documentary “Diana: The Princess and the Bodyguard” has provided fresh insights into this fraught period, revealing Wharfe’s concerns over Diana’s mental state during what seemed like an idyllic getaway. In a candid conversation with OK! magazine, Wharfe shared how his unease was palpable. He said, “I could have lost her. It’s something I’ve always been concerned about. She had thoughts or beliefs that put her in real danger.”
In the context of their recent escapade, Diana appeared to have embraced a riskier approach by skiing without proper safety measures—a move he felt was reckless and potentially life-threatening. “I was genuinely worried for her well-being,” Wharfe admitted.
The tension escalated when Diana made statements or acted as if she intended suicide during the trip. In his mind, this was not merely a hypothetical concern but a genuine fear for her safety. His statement to her rang true: “You could have killed yourself,” he remarked. “And that’s something you can’t accept,” Wharfe explained further.
His decision to step down from his role as Diana’s bodyguard stemmed from the need to prioritize her security over any lingering professional duties. He emphasized, “I had mixed feelings about leaving because I enjoyed doing this work with her. But it was clear that continuing might compromise her safety.” His resignation came as a shock not only to Princess Diana but also to his colleagues and superiors.
This episode marked a pivotal moment in Wharfe’s career where personal ethics clashed with professional obligations, leading him to make an unwavering choice for Diana’s protection. The fallout of this decision underscored the delicate balance between protecting one’s client and ensuring their safety under any circumstance.