Written and narrated by James Cameron
'I have found it impossible to discharge my duties as King without the help and support of the woman I love.'
(Abdication broadcast of KING EDWARD VIII, 10 December 1936)
The story of Edward VIII 's obsession for Mrs Simpson, the twice-divorced American for whom he gave up his throne, has passed into legend. Theirs was a love affair that began harmlessly enough, grew into a private scandal, and finally precipitated a constitutional crisis that threatened the very fabric of the British monarchy.
Could the Abdication have been prevented or did its seeds lie in Edward's own character and the times in which he lived? What was Mrs Simpson's role? Why was the crisis kept secret from the British people for so long? What really went on behind the scenes? In tonight's anniversary programme JAMES CAMERON considers these questions, and with the help of frank evidence from those close to the King or involved in the crisis, offers a fresh and critical interpretation of the events of those days. with LADY HARDINGE OF PENSHURST, LADY DIANA COOPER, THE EARL OF CARNARVON, JAMES MARGACH, ALISTAIR COOKE
Director PHILIP GEDDES
Producer GORDON WATKINS.