Charles Spencer is divorcing his wife, Karen Spencer, after nearly 13 years of marriage. The 9th Earl Spencer and younger brother of the late Princess Diana announced the split on Sunday on June 8.
“It is immensely sad,” Charles, 60, stated, “I just want to devote myself to all my children and my grandchildren, and I wish Karen every happiness in the future.”
Tabloids report that Charles’ relationship with the Countess of Spencer, 52, ended during the writing of his memoir, “A Very Private School.” The former couple announced their split to the staff at Althorp House, Charles’ ancestral home, in April.
It has been noted that Spencer is “becoming close to” Norwegian archaeologist Dr. Cat Jarman, co-host of the history podcast “The Rabbit Hole Detectives” with Spencer and the Rev. Richard Coles. They reportedly “look very happy together but it is early days.”
Charles and Karen, a social entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Whole Child International, married on June 18, 2011, at Althorp House, just two months after Charles’ nephew Prince William and Kate Middleton’s royal wedding.
The historic English estate, where Charles and his sister Diana grew up, became Karen’s residence upon their marriage. Charles and Karen share a 12-year-old daughter, Charlotte Diana, whose middle name honors Princess Diana.
In March, Charles opened up about his personal struggles in his memoir, revealing his traumatic experiences at boarding school and subsequent therapy journey. He reflected on his marriages and sought professional help to understand his relationship patterns.