The 18 Weirdest Royal Family Conspiracies

The Lizard Person Theory and Other Royal Conspiracy Theories

Queen Elizabeth II was a lizard person. This theory, which has persisted despite her passing, is rooted in the ideas of David Icke, an ex-BBC presenter who claimed in his 1998 book The Biggest Secret that members of the royal family were reptiles with crowns. Some people have even suggested that the royals blink in a “lizard-like manner.” Over time, this idea has become intertwined with ancient mythologies and science fiction, including the notion that the royal family are reptilian extraterrestrials from the constellation Draco. However, these theories fall firmly into the realm of fiction, as the royal family, while often seen as “others,” are indeed human.

Charles and Diana’s Secret Daughter

Another conspiracy theory claims that Prince Charles and Princess Diana had a secret daughter named Sarah. According to the story, Diana's eggs were retrieved and fertilized with Charles's sperm, and one embryo was allegedly transferred to a doctor's wife, who gave birth to Sarah in 1981. This plot closely resembles the fictional novel The Disappearance of Olivia, published by Nancy E. Ryan in 2011. While such stories may seem plausible given the royal family's focus on producing heirs, there is no evidence to support the existence of Sarah. Even if she did exist, the 2013 Succession to the Crown Act would not allow her to challenge William's position as heir.

The Royal Family Killed Diana

Diana's death in 1997 sparked numerous conspiracy theories, including the claim that the royal family was responsible for her death. Mohammed Al Fayed, father of Diana's boyfriend Dodi, spread this rumor, suggesting that Prince Philip wanted to prevent Diana from marrying a Muslim. Despite investigations like Operation Paget, no evidence of foul play was found. Historians like Marlene Koenig note that conspiracy theories often surround famous figures, regardless of factual evidence.

Diana Was Pregnant with Another Baby

Another theory claimed that Diana was pregnant with Dodi’s child, leading to her murder. However, this was debunked when it was revealed that the couple had visited the Villa Windsor for reasons unrelated to a pregnancy. No medical evidence supported the claim, and the story was largely a fabrication.

Meghan Markle Used a Surrogate

Rumors about Meghan Markle's pregnancies, including claims that her bump was fake or that she used a surrogate, reflect ongoing societal biases. These theories often stem from racial and gender prejudices, questioning the legitimacy of her children's potential roles in the monarchy. While surrogacy is not explicitly addressed in royal rules, it has been used as a tool for criticism.

Kate Middleton Had a Body Double

When Kate Middleton did not appear in public for several months in 2024, rumors circulated that she had a body double. These claims were fueled by social media, where individuals without expertise in royal affairs often presented themselves as experts. The rumors were eventually dispelled when Kate revealed she was being treated for cancer.

Prince Harry Isn’t Charles’s Son

The red hair shared by Prince Harry and James Hewitt, with whom Diana had an affair, led to speculation that Harry might be Hewitt’s son. However, timing and royal insiders have refuted this claim. While Harry’s relationship with his father has fueled some theories, there is no evidence to support them.

Princess Margaret Had a Love Child

Princess Margaret, known for her rebellious lifestyle, was rumored to have had a love child. Robert Brown claimed to be her son, but court documents did not confirm this. While the story is not entirely implausible, it remains unverified.

Queen Elizabeth I Was a Man

Historical accounts suggest that Queen Elizabeth I, known as the "Virgin Queen," was a woman who ruled effectively. However, some theories claimed she was actually a man. Bram Stoker’s work added to this myth, but there is no evidence to support it.

Richard I and French King Philip II Were Lovers

Historical sources suggest a close relationship between King Richard I and French King Philip II. While some speculate they were lovers, there is no definitive proof. Medieval customs around sleeping arrangements make it difficult to determine the nature of their relationship.

Two Medieval Princes Were Murdered

The "Princes in the Tower" mystery involves two brothers who vanished in 1483. Bones found in 1674 were presumed to be theirs, but no conclusive evidence exists. Recent discoveries, such as a necklace belonging to Edward V, have reignited interest in the case.

King George III Was “Mad”

King George III suffered from mental illness, possibly porphyria, a blood disorder that can cause symptoms similar to madness. His condition influenced the Regency period, during which his wife ruled in his place.

King Charles Is a Vampire

King Charles III has a distant connection to Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula. While some conspiracy theories link this to vampirism, there is no evidence that Charles engages in any such behavior.

About the Experts

Nicoletta Gullace, PhD, is an associate professor at the University of New Hampshire specializing in early modern European history and modern Britain. Marlene Koenig is a royal historian and frequent media commentator. Tony McMahon is an investigative historian and author. Their insights provide valuable context to these historical and contemporary theories.