Michael Barrymore shares personal letters from Princess Diana on anniversary of her death

Michael Barrymore has revealed a collection of handwritten letters showing how Princess Diana offered her support and love to him in the months before she died.

In a series of personal letters, Diana spoke of her own “nightmare time in the tabloids”, while telling Barrymore he could contact her “anytime” if he needed her.

The letters, which Barrymore revealed on his TikTok account, coincided with the 25th anniversary of Diana’s death.

Barrymore wrote that he was “privileged to have known Princess Diana as Diana”, adding that she was “the best friend that anyone could ask for”.

In one letter, written in March 1997, Diana wrote: “What a joy it was to finally meet you tonight and it was a privilege to share so much with you...

“I did want to emphasise that I'm here for you whenever – it's very easy to pop round and see you or please telephone now you have my number. Anytime.

“You're doing just fine – and believe me I know.”

Watch: First medic at scene of Princess Diana's fatal crash 'didn't recognise her'

In another letter, Diana wrote of her own issues as she asked about her friend’s wellbeing.

In June 1997 – two months before her death – Diana wrote: “Are you OK? I am concerned because i haven't heard from you for some time – I hope the silence is good news!

“I have had a nightmare time in the tabloids!”

Diana’s friendship with Barrymore has been well documented, with the princess acting as a confidant for the entertainer during a turbulent time in his personal life.

After his marriage to wife Cheryl broke down, Barrymore revealed that Diana supported him during a period of alcoholism.

The princess is also believed to have cut short her holiday to return to London to comfort Barrymore when he was admitted to rehab in 1996.

Diana was 36 when was killed in a car crash in Paris on 31 August, 1997, a year after her divorce from Prince Charles was finalised.

Barrymore’s former wife Cheryl wrote in her autobiography that the entertainer called her from a Brixton gay club begging her to tell him that Diana had not died.

Her death shocked the world and in the decades that have followed her influence has been seen in the causes supported by royals.

Diana broke new ground by championing issues like Aids awareness – famously holding the hand of a man with the illness – or highlighting homelessness and joining campaigners calling for a ban on landmines.