A Hidden Moment: Diana and David Bowie

A rare photo of Princess Diana smiling beside rock legend David Bowie at a London concert has resurfaced after decades. But why was it hidden for nearly 40 years?

The Night It Happened

In 1987, 25-year-old Princess Diana attended a charity concert at Wembley Stadium. David Bowie was the headlining act that evening. Promoter Harvey Goldsmith set up a photo opportunity and invited photographer Denis O’Regan, who had worked with Bowie before.

According to O’Regan, Diana expressed interest in taking a photo with Bowie but wasn’t sure he’d agree. Bowie said yes, and the picture was taken.

Palace Intervention

The next day, the royal palace contacted the photographer. They requested that the image not be published—not because of anything inappropriate or Bowie’s involvement, but due to someone else in Diana’s company.

The Real Reason

That night, Diana had arrived with Major James Hewitt. At the time, rumors of an affair between them were circulating—rumors that later turned out to be true. The palace didn’t want to fuel speculation.

Hewitt stayed away from cameras, trying to remain unnoticed. “No one knew who he was, so I didn’t photograph him,” O’Regan recalled. Since the story hadn’t broken yet, he chose not to release the photo—and he still stands by that decision.

Fashion and Fallout

Diana also faced criticism from the royal family for her outfit that evening. She wore leather pants, which didn’t sit well with the traditional palace image. Diana later defended her look, saying she wanted to appear youthful and connect with her audience.

The Photo Emerges

Now, nearly four decades later, the photo has finally been released in a new biography of David Bowie. The book includes several previously unseen images by Denis O’Regan—including that once-suppressed moment.

The Legacy

The image no longer poses a threat to the royal family’s reputation. However, it highlights how carefully Diana’s public image was managed—and how much was hidden behind palace walls.