Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have decided not to participate in the Easter celebrations with the King and other royal family members, according to royal sources. Recent scrutiny surrounding their connection with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has put pressure on the princesses. Both were mentioned in the latest release of Epstein files by the US State Department earlier this year.
Their parents, former prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, were also prominently featured in the files and were stripped of their royal titles by King Charles in October. While there are no allegations against Beatrice or Eugenie, their father has consistently denied any misconduct.
Although Beatrice and Eugenie were present during the Christmas festivities at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, they have since opted to step back following revelations about their parents’ association with Epstein. A royal insider indicated that, in agreement with the King, the princesses made alternative arrangements for Easter. Consequently, they will not be part of the royal entourage attending the traditional Easter Matins service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle this Sunday. However, they are expected to join future family gatherings.
The King had previously invited both princesses to Sandringham for Christmas, showing support amidst the ongoing challenges. While there is no indication of their titles being revoked, there is a sense of unease within royal circles about issuing public statements regarding the princesses given the evolving Epstein-related allegations.
Recent speculations suggested that the King might not extend an invitation to Beatrice and Eugenie for Royal Ascot in June. However, no final decision has been made. If they were to attend, they would likely not participate in the carriage procession.
Their father, Mountbatten-Windsor, will also be absent from the Easter celebrations at Windsor this weekend due to his recent arrest for public office misconduct. He was recently seen inspecting horses near his new residence on the Sandringham estate after being prohibited from riding in Windsor.
Amidst these developments, the King has expedited the process for his brother to vacate the Royal Lodge mansion in Windsor, where he had resided for over two decades. Royal aides have been clearing out the remaining possessions from the property, including quarters where Andrew was attended to by royal staff.
On a separate note, reports indicate that Fergie, the mother of Beatrice and Eugenie, has maintained a low profile amid mounting pressure following her association with Epstein. She has reportedly traveled discreetly to various locations and has not been seen publicly since attending her granddaughter’s christening in December.
Furthermore, Fergie recently lost her Freedom of the City of York title after a unanimous decision by the City of York Council to revoke the honor. Despite requests for sworn testimony in the US regarding her knowledge of Epstein, Fergie cannot be compelled to testify under US law.
