HISTORY This Week
Episode: Solving a Royal Murder Mystery | Philippa Langley Investigates the Princes in the Tower
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Host: The HISTORY® Channel | Back Pocket Studios
Duration: Approximately 39 minutes

Introduction to the Mystery

In this gripping episode of HISTORY This Week, host Sally Helm dives deep into one of England's most enduring historical enigmas: the disappearance of the Princes in the Tower. This episode features an in-depth interview with historian and author Philippa Langley, whose groundbreaking work sheds new light on this centuries-old mystery.

Discovery of the Skeletons (01:53 - 04:36)

The episode begins with a vivid reenactment set in July 1674, where laborers uncover two small skeletons beneath a staircase in the Tower of London. This discovery reignites the long-standing debate over the fate of Edward V and his younger brother, Richard, who vanished in 1483. The narrative swiftly connects these findings to King Charles II's interpretation, where he posits that the brothers were victims of their uncle, Richard III.

Sally Helm (Host):
"Nearly 200 years earlier, in 1483, two young boys famously disappeared from the Tower of London...Rumors spread that they'd been murdered by their uncle, King Richard III."

Philippa Langley's Quest (04:36 - 07:08)

Enter Philippa Langley, whose Looking for Richard Project challenges the traditional villainous portrayal of Richard III. Influenced by Paul Murray Kendall's research, Langley begins to question the Shakespearean depiction of Richard, seeking to uncover his true legacy.

Philippa Langley:
"I couldn't understand why whenever we hear about Richard III, it's the Shakespearean villain who was rolled out...I think you have to take those very seriously."

Her investigative journey leads her to hypothesize that Richard III was unjustly maligned by political enemies, particularly Henry Tudor (later Henry VII), who sought to consolidate power by tarnishing Richard's reputation.

Reevaluating Richard III's Role (07:08 - 12:08)

Langley meticulously examines historical records, uncovering instances that portray Richard as a loyal and capable leader rather than a tyrant. She posits that the negative narratives were fabricated to legitimize Henry VII's claim to the throne.

Philippa Langley:
"Historians that have gone with that account often ignored that Richard was the Constable of England...He was trying to navigate a minefield at this time."

The Coronation and the Princes' Placement (12:08 - 17:33)

Following King Edward IV's unexpected death in April 1483, his sons, Edward V (12) and Richard (9), are hastily moved to the Tower of London under the protection of their uncle, Richard III. Langley explores the political maneuvering involved, including the arrest of relatives from the princes' mother's family, the Woodvilles, suggesting that these actions were strategic rather than indicative of a power grab.

Philippa Langley:
"The accounts show Richard was trying to negotiate a complex political situation, not necessarily rushing to seize power."

The Bishop's Revelation and Richard's Ascension (17:33 - 22:22)

A pivotal moment occurs when an English bishop alleges that King Edward IV was previously married, rendering his sons illegitimate. This revelation undermines the princes' claim to the throne and propels Richard III to seize power, culminating in his coronation. Langley challenges the conventional narrative that views this as a straightforward usurpation, instead highlighting Richard's hesitation and general acceptance by the populace.

Philippa Langley:
"His coronation was one of the best attended, and it was generally accepted as the right thing to do."

The Disappearance of the Princes (22:22 - 26:35)

As Richard III's reign progresses, the princes vanish, leading to speculations of foul play. Contrary to popular belief, contemporary evidence from the time does not explicitly link Richard to their disappearance. Langley emphasizes the absence of immediate suspicions or public outcry during Richard's rule.

Philippa Langley:
"There is absolutely no contemporary evidence that people thought the princes had been murdered during Richard's reign."

The Missing Princes Project (28:34 - 35:20)

Philippa Langley introduces the Missing Princes Project, a collaborative research initiative involving over 300 members worldwide. This collective effort uncovers critical evidence, including a 1487 receipt in Holland indicating Edward V's exile and a manuscript by the younger prince, Richard, detailing his journey away from the Tower.

Philippa Langley:
"In May 2020, we found a receipt for weapons dated 16 December 1487...It was a really big moment."

Unveiling the Truth (35:20 - 37:31)

Through rigorous analysis, Langley and her team propose that both princes did not perish in the Tower but were instead exiled. Richard V is believed to have been executed in 1499 after several failed attempts to reclaim the throne, while Edward V likely died sometime after 1488, with no definitive records of his fate.

Philippa Langley:
"We concluded there is no evidence that the remains found are those of the princes...They were probably foundation burials from much earlier periods."

Challenging the Established Narrative (37:31 - 39:12)

Langley confronts the entrenched image of Richard III as a villain, attributing it to Tudor propaganda designed to legitimize Henry VII's rule. She advocates for a historical methodology that prioritizes contemporary sources over later, potentially biased accounts.

Philippa Langley:
"The victors write the history...use contemporary materials from those who knew people rather than later chroniclers who weren't there."

Conclusion

This episode of HISTORY This Week masterfully blends historical investigation with engaging storytelling, presenting a compelling reevaluation of one of England's most infamous monarchs. Philippa Langley's meticulous research not only questions long-held beliefs but also exemplifies how modern inquiry can breathe new life into historical mysteries.

Notable Quotes:

• Philippa Langley (04:36): "It's possible to solve very old historical mysteries by taking a fresh, clear-eyed look at the facts."

• Philippa Langley (05:29): "I think you have to take [positive accounts of Richard] very seriously."

• Philippa Langley (07:22): "I decided to get in touch with investigative specialists...you have to start with a blank page."

• Philippa Langley (22:15): "He hesitates."

• Philippa Langley (36:25): "I have called for these remains to be examined at our earliest convenience...They were probably foundation burials."

This comprehensive exploration not only uncovers new evidence but also invites listeners to rethink a pivotal chapter of English history. Whether you're a history enthusiast or new to the subject, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the Princes in the Tower and the legacy of Richard III.