Dodi Fayed, an Egyptian film producer, was the son of late businessman Mohamed Al-Fayed. Dodi became well-known not only for his work in the film industry but also for his romantic relationship with Diana, Princess of Wales.
Unfortunately, Dodi and Diana's love story came to a tragic end on 31 August 1997. They both lost their lives in a car crash in Paris. The sudden and untimely demise of them deeply saddened people around the world, leading to an outpouring of grief and shock.
Fayed's Relationship With Princess Diana
How Did The Two Meet?
Dodi Fayed and Princess Diana crossed paths due to the connection between his father, Mohammed, and the British royal family. In 1985, Mohammed acquired the renowned Harrods department store. It brought him into the circle of the royals, including the Princess of Wales.
Dodi Fayed's ex-partner, Princess Diana SOURCE: Pinterest
Mohammed and Diana's encounters became more frequent as the years went by. And, it was at a polo match in Windsor in 1986 that she is said to have met him for the first time.
Did Fayed Actually Like The Princess of Wales?
According to royal historian Sally Bedell Smith, Mohamed Al Fayed played a role in orchestrating the romance between his son, Dodi, and Princess Diana, as mentioned in an article from Vanity Fair. Fresh off her breakup with Hasnat, she found herself on the Egyptian businessman's yacht. It was a setting he carefully arranged.
Al Fayed, eager to integrate into the upper rank of British society, brought his son, Dodi into the picture. Diana, who had recently ended a deep and meaningful relationship with Hasnat, was now in the midst of a new chapter.
Notably, at the time, Dodi was engaged to be married the following month to his fiancée. However, according to reports, Al Fayed allegedly insisted that his son end his engagement to get involved with Prince William's mother. It's important to note that a spokesperson for Mohammed denied these claims in 1997. So, the exact details of the situation remain uncertain.
Moving From Hasnat Khan To Dodi Fayed
Diana gained widespread attention for her relationship with Hasnat Khan, a British Pakistani surgeon. Their romance faced challenges due to the constant media scrutiny and publicity. Hasnat, feeling uncomfortable with the intense public focus, decided to end their relationship.
Princess Diana's ex-partner, Hasnat Khan SOURCE: Pinterest
Later, Khan shared insights into Diana's choice to be with Dodi Fayed, saying, "She wanted to be with someone happy to be seen with her in public, and she could do that with Dodi." He acknowledged that the People's Princess may have realized that he could provide the security and lifestyle that he, as a surgeon, could not offer.
Previously Married To Susanne Gregard
Fayed had been married to Susanne Gregard in the past. The two first crossed paths when she was 26 years old. He had embarked on a romantic pursuit by frequently flying her to London on weekends using the Concorde. Despite initial hesitation, she eventually succumbed to his charms.
When Gregard rejected his invitation to visit England for two weeks, Dodi, the multimillionaire, took a unique approach. He booked her as a model at Harrods, ensuring she couldn't refuse.
The proposal took place on New Year’s Eve in 1986. Dodi and Susanne were married later that same year. However, their marital bliss was short-lived, and they divorced in August 1987 after only eight months of being husband and wife.
What Ended The Marriage To Gregard?
The marriage between Fayed and Gregard came to an end for various reasons. One significant factor was the stark contrast in their backgrounds. According to the model, their worlds were fundamentally different, and she highlighted a poignant example of their disparate lifestyles.
Dodi Fayed and his ex-wife Susanne Gregard SOURCE: Pinterest
Susanne recalled a moment when she was unwell and requested Dodi to bring her some medicine and food. To her surprise, upon his return, Dodi had a big grin on his face. It turned out that, at 31 years old, it was the first time he had ever been to a grocery store.
Romantic Entanglements With Princess Diana And Beyond
Dodi Fayed's romantic involvements extended beyond his relationship with Diana, as revealed by ex-model Annie Cardone. She disclosed that she dated him at the same time as the princess, as reported in The Sun.
Cardone initially felt "annoyed" when she discovered his connection with the Princess. Concerns about potential infidelity led her to end her relationship with Dodi. In hindsight, she now agonizes over whether her decision played a role in their tragic deaths.
The emotional impact of their final encounter remains vivid for Annie, as she recalls Dodi begging for another chance. He expressed his love and even, sobbed. This sheds light on the intricate dynamics of his personal life and the complexities that ultimately intertwined with the fateful events in Paris.
Dodi Fayed's Past Relationships
Fayed's romantic history is quite extensive, featuring relationships with various notable figures. Among those he was involved with are Daryl Hannah in 1997, Joanne Whalley in 1996, Kelly Fisher from 1995 to 1997, Mimi Rogers in 1990, and Susannah Constantine in 1989, just to name a few.
The Egyptian was also involved with Tania Bryer from 1989 to 1990, Traci Lind from 1989 to 1992, Marie Helvin in 1988, Tina Sinatra in 1987, Lydia Cornell in 1986, Brooke Shields from 1984 to 1985, Denice D. Lewis from 1983 to 1988, Linda Atterzaedh in 1983, Cathy Lee Crosby in 1982, Tanya Roberts in 1981, and Valerie Perrine in 1977.
Dodi also had encounters with Michelle Pfeiffer in 1988, Charlotte Lewis, Tracy Richman in 1988, Lynsey de Paul in 1983, and Sandra Taylor. The list also includes high-profile names like Barbra Streisand and Britt Ekland.
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