A renowned figure from London’s theater district has disclosed a previously undisclosed romantic involvement with Prince Edward. Ruthie Henshall, aged 59, has shared intimate details of their five-year relationship in her newly published book, “The Showgirl and the Prince”, where she unveiled moments such as finding “HRH Edward” embroidered into the prince’s undergarments and leaving him feeling sleepy the following morning.
The actress narrated the story of how they met after the prince, then 23, departed the Royal Marines to take on a role as a production assistant at Andrew Lloyd Webber’s theater company. This shift in Edward’s career path generated media buzz at the time, with reports highlighting his departure from military training and the emotional reaction it elicited from his father, Prince Philip.
As their friendship blossomed into a romance during their time together in the theater world, Ruthie confessed that she was drawn to Edward partly due to his royal status. Their initial dates included a visit to Buckingham Palace, where she was surprised to find Edward’s underwear labeled with “HRH Edward”.
In her book, Ruthie also mentioned how Edward, keen on taking things slow, wrote her a letter after their first kiss, expressing his desire for patience in their relationship. She further detailed the prince’s gestures of affection, including sending her handwritten letters on Buckingham Palace stationery with kisses instead of his name, and surprising her with freesias, her favorite flowers.
When they eventually became intimate in January 1989, Ruthie described Edward as both romantic and gentle. Their relationship allowed Ruthie to experience royal life, culminating in an introduction to Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle, an encounter where royal protocol momentarily slipped her mind.
The memoir chronicling their private relationship is scheduled for release on July 16, 2026. Buckingham Palace was approached by the Mirror for a statement regarding this revelation.