Ruthie Henshall reflects on romance with Prince Edward in new memoir

Ruthie Henshall has reflected on her five-year romance with Prince Edward, describing the relationship as loving and supportive while revealing why the couple ultimately went their separate ways.

The 59-year-old actress discusses their relationship in her new memoir, The Showgirl and the Prince, recalling that they met in the late 1980s while working on a production of Cats, where Edward was employed as a production assistant.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Henshall dismissed long-standing speculation about the prince's sexuality and described him as a gentle and caring partner who helped her rebuild her confidence after childhood abuse.

She also revealed that she once hoped they would marry, but Edward believed she should not face the intense scrutiny that comes with royal life.

According to Henshall, the prince told her he was trying to protect her and could not ask someone he loved to take on the demands of public duty.

Before publishing her memoir, the actress said she informed Edward about the book, adding that he supported her decision to tell her story and wished her well.

She also praised his marriage to Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, calling the couple devoted companions.