He added that the calls often lasted for hours, focusing on her children and struggles with the press. Jackson even claimed his then-wife, Lisa Marie Presley, became jealous of these conversations.
However, friends of Diana later disputed this, saying Jackson never had her private number and that palace staff were instructed not to connect his calls.
Shared Causes and Shared Pressures
What is clear is that Diana and Jackson shared similar experiences and values. Both were deeply involved in charitable work. Around the time they met, Jackson donated large sums to The Prince’s Trust and Great Ormond Street Hospital.
They also shared a taste in jewelry, both being clients of the same British designer, Butler & Wilson.
Jackson’s former bodyguard, Matt Fiddes, later claimed the singer was “in love” with Diana, saying she was “the only person in the world who could understand his life” under relentless media scrutiny.
Diana’s Death and Jackson’s Grief
Their shared struggle with paparazzi pressure was another strong bond. Both were among the most photographed people on the planet, and both suffered deeply from media intrusion.
They reportedly remained friends until Diana’s death in 1997. Jackson was said to be devastated by the news, reportedly fainting upon hearing it and postponing a concert on his HIStory tour.
After returning to the stage, he paid tribute, saying, “In my heart, I was saying, ‘I love you, Diana. Shine. And shine on forever, because you are the true princess of the people.’”
Remembering Diana
Jackson did not attend Diana’s funeral but instead went to a memorial service in Los Angeles, explaining he wanted to “honor my friend who is no longer here… I love her.”
Years later, he continued to speak fondly of her, calling Diana “one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known” and reflecting on how they bonded over their shared battles with the press.
That single photograph of Diana and Michael Jackson now feels far more significant. What appears to be a fleeting moment was, in reality, the beginning of a connection shaped by fame, compassion, and the heavy cost of life in the spotlight.
