The romance between Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed captivated the world during the summer of 1997. Their whirlwind relationship, filled with luxurious trips and public fascination, became the centre of media attention. Diana, already one of the most photographed women in the world, and Dodi, the son of Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Al-Fayed, seemed to live a modern fairy tale — albeit one with a tragic end.
Their relationship blossomed in the months following Diana’s divorce from Prince Charles, with paparazzi chronicling their every move. From yachting in the Mediterranean to romantic dinners in Paris, the couple’s love story became a global spectacle. While their romance was brief, the mystery surrounding their final days has continued to intrigue the public, especially when it comes to the question of their engagement.
The Crown‘s Depiction of the Engagement
The final season of The Crown revisits Diana and Dodi’s relationship, offering a fictionalised portrayal of their time together. In the episode “Dis-moi Oui” (French for “Say Yes”), Dodi is seen purchasing a diamond engagement ring for Diana at the iconic Parisian jeweller Repossi. The Netflix series dramatises the event, presenting Dodi as ready to propose to Diana shortly before their tragic car accident on August 31, 1997.
However, as with much of The Crown, creative liberties were taken. The show’s depiction of their relationship as one heading toward marriage has sparked debate about its historical accuracy. While the series paints a romanticised picture, the real-life details remain shrouded in speculation.
The Real Story Behind the Engagement Ring
In reality, Dodi Fayed did purchase a diamond ring from Repossi. According to reports, the ring was part of the jeweller’s “Dis-moi Oui” collection, a name that naturally lends itself to engagement speculation. However, the exact intentions behind the purchase remain unclear.
Some sources suggest that Dodi intended to propose, while others claim the ring was simply a gesture of commitment rather than a formal engagement. The Guardian reported that Mohamed Al-Fayed firmly believed his son planned to propose to Diana, citing the purchase of the ring as evidence. However, there is no definitive proof that Dodi proposed to Diana or that she accepted.
Was Diana Wearing the Ring When She Died?
Contrary to popular belief, Princess Diana was not wearing the “engagement ring” at the time of her death. Reports indicate that the ring was still in its box, as Diana had not yet decided what it symbolised in their relationship. The couple’s romance was intense but brief, and it’s unclear if Diana saw herself walking down the aisle with Dodi.
What Happened to the Ring?
The fate of the ring has been the subject of speculation. After the tragic car crash in Paris, the ring was reportedly returned to Mohamed Al-Fayed. It remains in the possession of the Fayed family, symbolising a relationship that ended too soon.
A Love Story Frozen in Time
Diana and Dodi’s relationship, though brief, has become the stuff of legend. The mystery surrounding the engagement ring, and their final days adds another layer of intrigue to their story. While The Crown offers a dramatised version of events, the truth lies somewhere in the shadows of history. The ring, whether a token of love or a precursor to an engagement, remains a poignant reminder of a romance cut tragically short.
