In the midst of ongoing controversy surrounding their father's connections, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice are reportedly maintaining their familial bonds, choosing not to sever ties with the former Prince Andrew. Recent insights suggest that while the relationship has become notably strained, both royal sisters remain committed to their father, despite the public and private challenges posed by the Epstein scandal.
A Strained Yet Enduring Relationship
According to close sources, the Duke of York's association with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has placed significant pressure on his daughters, leading to a difficult and tense dynamic within the family. Princess Eugenie, in particular, is said to be deeply affected, described as "mortified" by her father's links to Epstein. This emotional strain was subtly evident during her recent public appearance at a high-end contemporary art fair in Doha, Qatar, where body language experts noted she appeared "rather vulnerable and resigned" beneath a seemingly upbeat exterior while accompanying her friend, German influencer Caroline Daur.
Public and Private Support
Despite these challenges, insiders emphasise that neither princess intends to abandon their father. A confidant of the sisters shared, "The sisters are not abandoning their father. They aren't turning their backs on him. But everything is obviously very strained and hard." This sentiment is reflected in their recent actions, such as opting to spend Christmas with other members of the Royal Family, rather than pursuing earlier rumours of overseas holidays with their husbands, as reported by the Express.
The situation has been further complicated by the release of additional Epstein documents, which include photographs depicting Andrew in compromising positions and emails revealing financial support from Epstein for former duchess Sarah Ferguson's travels. In one correspondence, Ferguson referred to Epstein as a "brother" she wished she had, even jokingly suggesting marriage, and detailed a visit to his Palm Beach residence with her then-teenage daughters Beatrice and Eugenie.
Broader Royal Implications
Writer and former Royal correspondent Robert Jobson expressed disbelief at these revelations, stating, "They must be overwhelmed and aghast by this. What was she thinking? Taking her daughters - the late Queen's granddaughters - to meet this vile convicted criminal? It really beggars belief." Meanwhile, Prince Andrew has recently relocated from his 30-room Royal Lodge to Wood Farm Cottage, Prince Philip's former retirement residence, as work continues on his new accommodation at the Sandringham Estate.
External Royal Pressures
The Epstein controversy continues to cast a shadow over the wider Royal Family, as evidenced during Prince William's diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia. While observing a girls' football training session, the Prince of Wales was confronted by a reporter who shouted a question about whether the royal family has done enough regarding the Andrew and Epstein scandal. William did not respond, and it remains unclear if he heard the query, highlighting the ongoing public scrutiny faced by the monarchy.
Through it all, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice are said to be navigating these turbulent times with a focus on family loyalty, even as they maintain a low public profile to avoid further controversy. Their stance underscores the complex interplay between personal relationships and public duty within the royal household.
