The Endearing Nickname Only Close Family Knew

Everyone knows Prince Harry and Prince William’s late mother, Princess Diana, as Lady Di, the People’s Princess, and the Princess of Hearts. But what about the name her closest family and friends used? Royal enthusiast David Butler recently uncovered a fascinating piece of royal history that sheds light on a lesser-known side of Diana's life. Through a photo shared on his private Twitter account, Butler revealed an unexpected Christmas card signed by none other than Princess Diana herself.

Here’s the kicker: the card wasn’t signed with one of her more formal titles. Instead, it bore a signature that hints at a much more personal side of the beloved princess. According to Butler, the card read, “Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and New Year and lots of love from the four of us, Duch and Charles.” That’s right—Duch. It seems Diana wasn’t just the Princess of Wales; she was also "Duch" to those closest to her.

The Story Behind 'Duch'

So, where did this unique nickname come from? Well, Diana’s former chef, Darren McGrady, spilled some tea in an interview with Hello! magazine. He recounted a memorable Christmas at Sandringham, where he witnessed Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, affectionately call Diana "Duch." Naturally, McGrady was curious about the informal title. “I was surprised because I knew she was a Princess,” he admitted, adding that Diana had always carried herself with a regal air, even in her youth. “When she was younger, she always acted like a Duchess,” McGrady explained, which might be why the nickname stuck.

Read also:
Samantha Hegseth The Rising Star Redefining Fitness And Health

This revelation suggests that the card was likely sent to a very close family member, someone Diana felt comfortable enough with to use such an intimate name. It’s a touching glimpse into the private world of the royal family, reminding us that even the most iconic figures have their own special ways of connecting with loved ones.

Why Diana Preferred 'Duch' Over 'Di'

Interestingly, Diana wasn’t fond of the nickname "Di." In Beatrice Gormley’s book, Diana, Princess of Wales, it’s revealed that Diana had her own preferred moniker: Dutch. According to Gormley, Diana found "Dutch" to be a much better fit for her personality. “Diana was usually friendly and good-natured, but not when she was called Di,” Gormley wrote. “‘Say that again,’ she told her schoolmates, ‘and you die. I am Duchess. Duch.’”

It turns out that "Dutch" was a particularly fitting nickname for the young Diana. Gormley recounts a school play in which Diana played a Dutch doll. Though shy about speaking in front of an audience, Diana embraced her role with enthusiasm, moving stiffly across the stage in character and earning applause from her peers. It was a moment that showcased Diana’s early love for the spotlight—a trait that would follow her throughout her life.