Paul Burrell comes out as gay and is to marry his partner of 10 years
Royal aide Paul Burrell has come out as gay and revealed that he is planning to marry his partner of 10 years, Graham Cooper, next month.
The late Princess Diana famously described the 58-year-old butler as her “rock” before she tragically passed away.
Paul officially divorced his wife Maria nine months ago after 32 years of marriage, and a spokesperson confirmed his forthcoming marriage to Graham to The Mirror.
It is thought that Paul had been living apart from Maria for several years before they split and he and Graham have been business partners, keeping their romance a secret from close friends and family.
In fact, it is thought that Paul has only just told his adult sons, Alex and Nick, about his sexuality and relationship with Graham.
However friends are delighted for Paul, with a source telling The Sun: “He’s so much happier now that he can tell the world and be comfortable with himself and his relationship.”
The insider went on to reveal that Paul had told Princess Diana that he is gay before her tragic Paris car crash in 1997.
They shared: “Paul’s friends and family all know but for a long time he kept it a closely guarded secret.
“And for a time, literally nobody knew. He did share it with Diana while he worked with her because they were so close.
“But at the time she was the only woman he felt he could tell.”
Paul and Graham will celebrate their upcoming marriage with a joint stag party in Blackpool before tieing the knot at a circus-themed wedding in the Lake District, according to reports.
The source explained: “They want to let their hair down and enjoy themselves. Guests have a rough idea of where it will take place.
“But to increase the suspense Paul and Graham have kept the exact details of the venue quiet.”
We wish Paul and Graham the very best for their impending nuptials.
