ABC Lines Up Four-Hour Princess Diana Documentary Event

BURBANK: ABC is planning to air a two-hour prime-time event celebrating the life of Princess Diana this August, marking the 20th anniversary of her tragic death.

The four-hour doc will feature in-depth conversations with those who knew her best, as well as the world’s leading Diana experts. These interviews will be woven together with reporting from People. The Princess Diana television event is produced for ABC by Time Inc. Productions.

“Princess Diana has appeared on the cover of People 57 times—more than anyone in the history of the People brand,” said Jess Cagle, People’s editor in chief and Time Inc.’s editorial director for the entertainment and style group. “Our audience has an insatiable appetite for news about the royal family; in fact, they are just as fascinated today as they were when Lady Diana was first introduced to the world back in 1981.”

Bruce Gersh, the senior VP of strategy and business development at Time Inc., added: “With an exceptional reputation as a trusted news authority, People has covered the royals extensively throughout the years. We are excited to partner with ABC on the latest television project from a Time Inc. brand.”

“Even 20 years after her untimely death, Princess Diana’s legacy continues to impact our world,” said Robert Mills, the senior VP of alternative series, specials and late night for ABC. “Our special will honor her memory and all the good that she did in her tragically brief life. Our partners at People are perfect to tell this story, as they’ve extensively covered her life throughout the years.”