Today, Prince Charles, 73, remains the heir to the British throne. But could a generation possibly be skipped and his son Prince William take the throne instead?
Royal experts have debated this question for years. And, in an interview over 20 years ago, Princess Diana herself even commented on the topic.
The British Line of Succession: Who's Next on the Throne?
During an interview with BBC's Panorama in November 1995, Princess Diana was first asked by Martin Bashir who she thought should be the heir to the throne:
"Do you think it would make more sense in the light of the marital difficulties that you and the Prince of Wales have had if the position of monarch passed directly to your son Prince William?"
Diana responded: "Well, then you have to see that William's very young at the moment, so do you want a burden like that to be put on his shoulders at such an age?" She herself led a tragic life under the Crown. Her son William was just 13 years old at the time.
The interviewer, however, continued to ask what Diana would think of William ascending the throne ahead of Charles when he had grown up. She answered: "My wish is that my husband finds peace of mind, and from that follows others things, yes."
A proud mother, Diana clearly had faith in her boys and even appeared to favour Charles ceding the throne to their firstborn son, William. Today, it seems likely Prince Charles will accede the throne upon the death or abdication of Queen Elizabeth II. But, at 95 years of age, the Queen is still in excellent health.
Along with the line of succession comments, these were the biggest reveals from Princess Diana's 1995 BBC interview.
Take a look!
Lost too soon
