Juan Carlos I published on November 5 His memories Reconciliation In France. The book, which will be released in our country next week, details the issues that characterized the life of the former king one by one. In order to promote the publication, Felipe VI’s father gave a series of interviews to the French media; But the most shocking was broadcast in the early hours of Wednesday on French public television France 3 for the programme Secrets of history (Secrets of history).
Al-Fakhri, who has been based in Abu Dhabi since 2020, used his intervention in one of the country’s most influential historical places to modify his rhetoric, set the tone for his latest memoir and, above all, present a very different personal and political portrait than seen in recent years. The interview was conducted by him Stefan ByrneIt combines a thoughtful theatrical performance, unpublished confessions, and a clear desire to reposition itself.
The meeting was held on Nurai Island, where the former king currently resides. There he showed himself without the usual formality of his corporate appearances: Without tie, with suede shoes and a blue jacket More relaxed than their suits last year. The body leans slightly forward and the hands are intertwined, reinforcing the visual message: Closeness, serenity and control. Her fluency in French, though slowed by age, also contributed to this relaxed and distant atmosphere.
Nothing in this show feels improvised. In fact, the recording took place on November 5, when both were recorded Reconciliation The interviews conducted with the French press have already caused major repercussions in Spain. With full knowledge of this media resonance, I chose Juan Carlos to do just that Clarify situations, reduce tensions, and review their story.
One of the clearest contradictions is between this interview and his previous statements His desire to return to Spain. If in recent weeks he had hinted at urgency and frustration, he is now adopting a different approach: he confirms that he lives “well” in Abu Dhabi and that his return will depend on “the moment and the situation.” The haste disappears from speech. This is a nice but important correction.
It also softens his self-perception in the face of public blame. He acknowledges mistakes – “All men make mistakes, everyone makes them” – but insists he no longer harbors any remorse. For him, “It’s all resolved, it’s all over”This is a phrase he repeats several times as if he wants to close a stage. Facing the gaze of others, he shows a contented resignation: “I’m used to hearing everything. Everyone has the right to express their opinion.”
Regarding his relationship with Spain, he offers emotional nuance: he admits to neglecting his family due to his dedication to the country. Hence your request for understanding. “I hope they forgive me and that the Spanish people understand what I did“, he says in a collective appeal that is repeated throughout the conversation.
The most striking reference comes when he talks about Felipe VI and his granddaughters. He does so in softer, more careful words than in previous interviews: he describes the current king as “good king” Which is going through a politically complex period and needs institutional support.
“As a father, I would like to see him more, to see him with his daughters, with Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía. As a king, I think he is going through a difficult time and needs support,” he admits and repeats: “I would like to see him more and see him with his girls more oftenPrincess Leonor and Infanta Sofía. I think that’s the nature of people. By this I mean that the relationship may be more or less the same, but it is very good.”
Berne doesn’t avoid the topics that hurt his image the most: mystery novels, Botswana hauntings, or sentimental stories. Juan Carlos replies without denying the influence, although without going into detail: “Well, I think in Spain money is more important… But everything is bad“He admits that he would be more careful if he could redo some episodes, but stresses that he tries to live without regrets.
He also mentions a phrase that he says he heard from his father: ““Juanito, we see you in the bathroom too.” “And when I grew up, I understood what he meant.” According to the former monarch, the understanding of that idea accompanied him in his public life, although he admits that he sometimes forgot it.