The pressure is mounting on the Royal Family, and Prince Andrew's situation has sparked a crucial question: what happens to Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie's royal titles if their father's dukedom is stripped away?
Following Prince Andrew's relinquishment of the use of his Duke of York title, whispers in Parliament suggest a formal stripping of his dukedom might be next, potentially through parliamentary legislation. But here's where it gets controversial... What does all of this mean for his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie?
Buckingham Palace has stepped in to clarify that the titles of Princess Beatrice, 37, and Princess Eugenie, 35, remain untouched. Both Prince Andrew and King Charles are reportedly keen to ensure the sisters retain their royal status. This decision highlights a delicate balance within the monarchy – wanting to address public concerns while protecting family members.
From birth, as male-line grandchildren of Queen Elizabeth II, Beatrice and Eugenie were styled as "Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice/Eugenie of York." This title signifies their direct lineage from the sovereign, a privilege automatically granted to them. And this is the part most people miss... It's not directly tied to their father's dukedom.
Since marrying Jack Brooksbank in 2018, Eugenie is styled as Her Royal Highness Princess Eugenie, Mrs. Jack Brooksbank. Similarly, after marrying Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in 2020, Beatrice became Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice, Mrs. Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. It's important to note that neither Jack nor Edoardo received titles upon marrying into the royal family. This is a common practice, as titles are generally inherited or granted by the monarch, not automatically bestowed through marriage.
While Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson won't be joining the royal family for Christmas, Beatrice and Eugenie are expected to attend the gathering at Sandringham and other royal events. This indicates that despite the controversies surrounding their father, they remain valued members of the family and are welcomed at key occasions.
Both princesses have also successfully balanced their royal duties with full-time careers. Beatrice works for the tech firm Afiniti, while Eugenie is a director at the Hauser & Wirth art gallery. This demonstrates a modern approach to royal life, where members contribute to society beyond their ceremonial roles.
Beatrice, ninth in line to the throne, actively supports several royal patronages, including the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, the Teenage Cancer Trust, and the Helen Arkell Dyslexia Charity. Eugenie, currently twelfth in line to the throne, is also a patron of various charities, such as the Elephant Family, the Teenage Cancer Trust, and the European School of Osteopathy. She also co-founded the Anti-Slavery Collective charity and became a mentor for The King's Foundation's 35 under 35 network of changemakers. Their dedication to these causes showcases their commitment to making a positive impact.
Both princesses are also mothers. Eugenie shares sons August, four, and Ernest, two, with her husband, Jack. Beatrice is mother to four-year-old Sienna and nine-month-old Athena, and is also stepmother to nine-year-old Christopher Woolf, known as Wolfie, from Edoardo's previous relationship.
The situation raises a broader question: Should royal titles be tied to personal conduct, or should they remain a birthright? What do you think? Should the actions of one family member impact the titles and standing of others? This is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides, and we'd love to hear your perspectives in the comments below.
