The Crown Season 6 Episode 1 commences with a haunting flashback to the fateful events of August 31, 1997, in the heart of Paris. A gentleman, walking his beloved dog and engrossed in conversation, suddenly hears a deafening crash echoing from the tunnel ahead. He hastily dials the emergency services, urgently relaying the details of the accident.
Then, the narrative rewinds to reveal the genesis of this tragedy. Princess Diana of Wales graces Prime Minister Tony Blair's abode with her sons, Princes William and Harry, for an afternoon of carefree play. As they engage in a spirited game of football, Princess Diana's captivating presence leaves Prime Minister Blair in awe.
Shortly after, Tony Blair makes a courtesy visit to Her Majesty the Queen. He ardently advocates for Princess Diana to assume a public role, insisting that she possesses the impeccable credentials to serve the people and carve her legacy. However, Queen Elizabeth gently reminds him that Diana has now parted ways with Charles, necessitating a transition to a life outside the royal circle.
Meanwhile, we discover that Princess Diana plans to spend her holidays at the idyllic Saint-Tropez estate of her newfound friend Mohammad Al-Fayed, accompanied by her cherished sons, Harry and William. This decision is a calculated move to steer clear of the impending festivities marking Camilla's 50th birthday.
In stark contrast, Charles is hosting a lavish celebration for Camilla's milestone birthday, hoping that his mother's approval will pave the way for widespread acceptance. However, when he extends an invitation to the Queen, she politely declines, unknowingly sparking a fire in Charles' already tense temperament.
Mohammad Al-Fayed extends a heartfelt welcome to Diana in the charming town of Saint-Tropez. The union between Dodi Al-Fayed and a woman of a lower social standing has left his father, Al-Fayed, deeply displeased. Seizing this opportunity, he hastily summons Dodi to his estate in Saint-Tropez, hoping to foster a closer bond between Diana and his son. However, Dodi's fiancée, Kelly Fisher, is left fuming with dissatisfaction over this sudden change in plans.
Meanwhile, Charles raises a toast to Camilla on her momentous 50th birthday, his genuine affection for his partner surprising even his aunt Margaret. She promptly calls the Queen, insinuating that the monarch's absence from the celebration was a missed opportunity. The Queen, seeking guidance, confides in Prince Philip, who advises her that her presence at the birthday bash would have been inappropriate.
In Saint-Tropez, the paparazzi relentlessly hound Diana, their intrusive lenses particularly aggravating her son William. Frustrated, Diana sternly demands the paparazzi to leave them be. Later that day, Dodi and Diana engage in a heart-to-heart conversation, their bond deepening. However, Dodi's jealous fiancée rushes to Saint-Tropez in a fit of rage, only to be denied entry onto the luxurious yacht where Diana and Dodi are spending their time.
Queen Elizabeth II, determined to reconcile with Charles, makes an attempt to mend fences. Her inquiries about Camilla's 50th birthday party suggest a possible thaw in their relationship. The next morning, after a blissful stay in Saint-Tropez with William and Harry, Diana retires back to Balmoral, escorted by the princes. Dodi assures Diana that she is always welcome in Saint-Tropez, his words filled with sincerity.
Upon returning home, Diana discovers a bouquet of flowers in her room, a thoughtful gesture presumably from Dodi. Alongside the flowers is a stunning watch and a note with the tantalizing question, "Paris next week?" leaving her with a tantalizing promise as the episode draws to a close.
