A Princess Diana Statue Is Coming to Kensington Palace Thanks to Princes William and Harry
This August will mark the 20-year anniversary of Princess Diana’s tragic passing in Paris, and her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry (who just strapped on his sneakers for charity), are planning the most touching tribute to their late mum: a statue in her likeness, to be erected in front of her former residence of Kensington Palace.
“It has been 20 years since our mother’s death and the time is right to recognize her positive impact in the UK and around the world with a permanent statue,” the princes declared in a seriously touching statement issued by the palace. “Our mother touched so many lives. We hope the statue will help all those who visit when it will be unveiled. It is hoped that this will occur before the end of 2017.”
At the request of The Duke of Cambridge & Prince Harry a statue of Diana, Princess of Wales is to be erected at Kensington Palace. pic.twitter.com/zc4XvqlaSY
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) January 28, 2017
The statement goes on to reveal that a six-person committee has been created to “commission and privately raise funds for the creation of the statue,” help select a sculptor and see to it that the statue is unveiled in the public gardens for all to enjoy. Among those selected? Princess Diana’s sister, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, and close friend and godmother of Prince George, Julia Samuel, report The Guardian.
The princes grew up in Kensington Palace and continue to live there to this day. While Prince Harry enjoys his own apartment (perhaps soon to be joined by Meghan Markle?!), Prince William shares his quarters with wife Kate Middleton (and her perfect hair), three-year-old Prince George and one-year-old Princess Charlotte, making Kensington the perfect home for a statue honoring the late princess. Now, excuse us while we go restock on tissues.
Is a statue the best way to honor Diana’s legacy? Tweet us @BritandCo.
(h/t E!, photo via Getty)