A long-forgotten royal relationship is returning to the spotlight, as actress Ruthie Henshall prepares to share her story in a deeply personal memoir. Drawing from old diaries and handwritten letters, her upcoming book promises a rare glimpse into a private chapter of royal life that has remained largely out of public view.

A Story Rediscovered

The inspiration for the memoir came unexpectedly. While clearing out her garage, Henshall uncovered boxes filled with journals and personal correspondence from decades ago. Among them were letters written by Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh during their relationship in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Revisiting those memories, she realized how meaningful that period had been, leading her to document the experience in her book The Showgirl and the Prince, scheduled for release in July 2026.

When Two Worlds Met

Their relationship began in 1988, when Henshall was starting her career in London’s theatre scene, performing in Cats. At the time, Prince Edward was working in the entertainment industry as well, which brought their paths together behind the scenes.