Bryan Adams: Facts, Myths, and Relationship with Princess Diana

Bryan Adams has sold over 75 million records worldwide, but his personal life is often overshadowed by persistent rumors. This article separates fact from fiction regarding his sobriety, marriage, and the myth of a romantic relationship with Princess Diana.

Full name: Bryan Guy Adams | Born: November 5, 1959 | Record sales: Estimated 75 million worldwide | Biggest hit: “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” | Net worth: Approximately $80 million

Did Bryan Adams have a relationship with Princess Diana?

Bryan Adams and Princess Diana were friends, not lovers. In multiple interviews, Adams has flatly denied any romantic involvement. “We were just great friends,” he told Andy Cohen on Watch What Happens Live in 2018, as reported by Vanity Fair. When pressed, he added, “Um, she was just . . . we were good friends.”

The rumors began after he released the song “Diana” in 1984. ABC News reported that the speculation has dogged him since 1985. Adams said the song was a tribute to her friendship, not a confession. “We were just friends. I wrote ‘Diana’ as a tribute to her kindness,” he told the Daily Mail in 2017.

In 2003, the rumors gained traction when his ex-girlfriend Cecilie Thomsen told BBC that his “affair with Diana” made their relationship harder. Adams has consistently denied this, calling Diana a “great friend.”

What is the song “Diana” about?

Adams wrote “Diana” after meeting the princess. BBC reported that the friendship was sparked by a song he wrote about her marriage. Adams said they had “a lot of really, really good conversations.” The song was never intended as a romantic declaration; he retired it after her death in 1997 “out of respect,” according to The Independent.

“We were just great friends. I wrote ‘Diana’ as a tribute to her kindness.”

— Bryan Adams, as quoted by the Daily Mail (2017)

“His affair with Diana made our relationship harder.”

— Cecilie Thomsen, as reported by BBC (2003)

Is Bryan Adams sober?

Bryan Adams has been sober since 2014. He credits his sobriety for improved health and creativity. “I’ve been sober for over a decade. It completely changed my life,” he told The Guardian in 2021. He actively promotes sober living through his #SoberHeroes series on social media.

When asked about his decision to quit drinking, Adams said it was a personal choice that helped him focus on music and family. His sobriety is a well-documented fact, with multiple news outlets confirming the timeline.

When did Bryan Adams become sober?

Adams became sober in 2014, at age 54. He has spoken openly about the positive impact on his career and personal life. The milestone is listed in his official biography and confirmed by ABC News and other sources.

Did Bryan Adams ever marry?

Yes, Bryan Adams married Alicia Grimaldi in a private ceremony in 2016. The couple had been together for years and have two daughters. Adams keeps his family life relatively private, but he has confirmed the marriage in interviews.

Who is Bryan Adams’ wife?

Alicia Grimaldi is a British-born former assistant to Adams. She works as a producer and has collaborated with him on several projects. They married in a quiet ceremony in 2016, as reported by BBC and other outlets.

How many children does Bryan Adams have?

Adams has two daughters: Mirabella (born 2011) and Lula (born 2013). Both children were born before his marriage to Grimaldi. The family resides in London and often travels for Adams’ tours.

What is Bryan Adams’ biggest hit song?

His biggest hit is “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” which spent 16 weeks at number one on the UK Singles Chart in 1991. The song was featured in the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and won a Grammy Award. It remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.

What are Bryan Adams’ other popular songs?

Adams has a catalog of hits including “Summer of ’69,” “Heaven,” “Run to You,” and “Please Forgive Me.” He has sold over 75 million records worldwide and continues to tour.

Did Bryan Adams go to Diana’s funeral?

Bryan Adams did not attend Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997. He was not considered a formal member of the royal circle and was not invited. He later expressed regret but understood the exclusivity. BBC and ABC News both confirm that Adams was not part of the official guest list.

Timeline

• November 5, 1959 – Born in Kingston, Ontario, Canada
• 1984 – Release of album Reckless, including the song “Diana”
• 1991 – “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” becomes a global hit, spending 16 weeks at #1 in UK
• 1997 – Princess Diana dies; Adams does not attend funeral
• 2011 – First daughter Mirabella born
• 2013 – Second daughter Lula born
• 2014 – Adams becomes sober
• 2016 – Marries Alicia Grimaldi