Princess Diana Reimagined: An American Mom with a Twist

Diana: A Royal Reboot

In a shocking twist, a new drama series is set to captivate audiences worldwide with its bold take on the life of Princess Diana. Titled "Phoenix", this fictionalized account of the beloved royal's life promises to be a far cry from the sanitized portrayal seen in Netflix's hit series "The Crown".

According to sources close to the project, "Phoenix" will delve into the uncharted territories of Diana's life, exploring what could have been if she had survived that fateful car crash in Paris. Gone is the tragic romance with Dodi Fayed; instead, our royal heroine finds love with an 'unscrupulous' American fund manager known as the 'Wall Street Wizard'. But be warned: their marriage is anything but a fairy tale.

With its A-list pedigree and insider knowledge, "Phoenix" has all the makings of a global phenomenon. At the helm are two men who knew Diana best: Rod Gunner, her close friend and confidant, and Patrick Jephson, her private secretary from 1988 to 1996. Together, they've crafted a story that will both delight and divide royal watchers.

Gunner, an entertainment guru with ties to the palace, reveals that "Phoenix" is not just another retread of Diana's life but a genuine attempt to put her back in our lives. 'We want to give people a chance to re-imagine what could have been,' he explains, wistfully recalling his many conversations with Diana.

As the series begins filming before Christmas, we get a glimpse into the world of this fictionalized Diana. Gone is the suffocating paparazzi attention in London; instead, she's found solace in the desert city of Phoenix, Arizona, where she lives with her daughter Frances – whose paternity remains a closely guarded secret.

But this new life comes with its own set of challenges. Frances, it seems, has inherited Diana's struggles with addiction, and their relationship is marked by blazing rows and heartbreak. Meanwhile, in the UK, Charles is still reeling from his divorce and grappling with the consequences of his marriage to Camilla Parker Bowles – but will she ultimately become Queen?

One thing's for sure: this new "what if" scenario has sparked controversy among the royal family. Insiders close to William and Harry reveal that they're less than thrilled about the portrayal of their mother in "Phoenix". 'They're not happy about it,' a source confides, 'but Rod and Patrick are convinced they're doing justice to Diana's legacy.'

As casting announcements begin to trickle out, fans can't help but wonder: who will play the lead role? Gunner hints that he's looking for someone who embodies the spirit of Diana – rather than relying on big-name stars. 'We want an actress who truly loves and understands her,' he explains.

John J McLaughlin, co-writer of "Black Swan", is set to join forces with Gunner and Jephson to bring this bold new take on Diana's life to the screen. And with its working title "Phoenix" – a nod to the city where our heroine finds refuge – it's clear that this series promises to be a wild ride.

But will it capture the essence of the people's princess? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: "Phoenix" is shaping up to be a drama like no other. As Gunner puts it, 'We're not trying to cash in on Diana's memory; we want to share our love and admiration for her with a new generation.'

With its inside knowledge, bold take, and star-studded cast, "Phoenix" is set to ignite the global conversation about one of history's most fascinating figures. And as we eagerly await its premiere, one question remains: will this reimagined Diana win over even the most hardened critics – or will it be another royal ratings flop? Only time will tell.

About the creators

• Rod Gunner is an entertainment guru and close friend of Princess Diana.
• Patrick Jephson was Diana's private secretary from 1988 to 1996 and serves as executive producer for "Phoenix".
• John J McLaughlin co-wrote the BAFTA-winning film "Black Swan" and joins forces with Gunner and Jephson on this new drama series.

Casting

• The role of Princess Diana is set to be played by a talented up-and-coming actress – not a big-name star.
• Casting announcements are expected to trickle out soon as filming begins before Christmas.