The marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana was once seen as a fairy tale, a storybook romance that captivated the world.

Their wedding, watched by 750 million people worldwide, was a moment of joyous celebration, and their public appearances were the epitome of grace and elegance.

But behind the glossy façade of royal duties and public celebrations, a dark and painful story was unfolding — one of heartbreak, betrayal, and scandal that would tear apart the Royal Family and reshape the lives of those involved.

Prince Charles first met Diana Spencer in 1977, when she was just 16 and he was 29.

The initial sparks of their relationship were ignited at a shooting party, where Charles asked Diana to show him around her family’s estate. At the time, Charles was dating Diana’s older sister Sarah, but it was Diana who caught his eye. Their relationship took off in earnest after Sarah’s marriage in 1980, with Charles and Diana reconnecting at his 30th birthday party.

Despite any early misgivings, the couple’s wedding on July 29, 1981, was a lavish affair, watched by millions across the globe. Princess Diana looked every bit the fairy tale princess in an ivory silk gown adorned with over 10,000 pearls, and the famous Spencer Tiara. But what should have been the beginning of a happily-ever-after soon revealed cracks beneath the surface.