From his early childhood in Alexandria, through the building of his multi-million pound global empire, Mohamed Al Fayed had an unwavering fascination with the British Royal Family culminating in his purchase of the former home of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor in Paris. After extending an invitation to the Queen to visit the refurbished 'Villa Windsor', Mohamed is disappointed when the Lord Chamberlain comes in her place and takes back several of the items he has had lovingly restored. Still hoping to win the Queen's favour, he attends the Windsor Horse Show and has a fateful meeting with Princess Diana who he introduces, for the first time, to his eldest son – Dodi.

In this episode, Edith Bowman talks with Writer Peter Morgan, Director Alex Gabassi, Head of Research Annie Sulzberger, and the actor portraying Mohamed al-Fayed, Salim Daw.

The Crown: The Official Podcast is produced by Netflix and Somethin’ Else, in association with Left Bank Pictures.