Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie are opting out of the royal family Easter gathering, as confirmed by sources close to the royals. The sisters have faced increasing scrutiny due to their connection to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Both Princesses were mentioned in recently released Epstein files by the US State Department.
Their parents, former Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, were also prominently featured in the files. Last year, King Charles stripped them of their royal titles. While there are no allegations against Beatrice or Eugenie, their father has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Although Beatrice and Eugenie attended the royal family Christmas at Sandringham estate in Norfolk, they have since distanced themselves following revelations about their parents’ association with Epstein. A royal source indicated that, in agreement with the King, the princesses have made alternative plans for Easter, foregoing the traditional Easter Matins service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle this Sunday.
While there is no indication of a title stripping at this stage, there is a sense of unease within royal circles regarding public statements about the princesses amidst ongoing Epstein-related allegations. Speculation arose that they might not be invited to Royal Ascot in June, although no decision has been finalized. Their father, Mountbatten-Windsor, will also be absent from Easter celebrations after his recent arrest for misconduct in public office.
As Andrew remains under scrutiny, the King has hastened his departure from the Royal Lodge mansion in Windsor. Andrew has relocated to Wood Farm on the Norfolk estate, away from Windsor, where he was seen observing horses alongside his security guard. Meanwhile, Fergie, their mother, has kept a low profile, reportedly traveling discreetly to various locations.
Fergie has faced calls to provide sworn testimony in the US regarding her knowledge of Epstein. The pressures on her increased as she lost her Freedom of the City of York title recently. Reports indicate that royal aides have been clearing out Andrew’s possessions from Royal Lodge. Andrew has not returned to Windsor since his departure, while Fergie has been out of the public eye since last year, facing mounting pressure over her connections to Epstein.
Congressman Suhas Subramanyam has called for Fergie to testify under oath before the House Oversight Committee. Despite these developments, Fergie cannot be compelled to testify in the US. The City of York Council unanimously revoked her Freedom of the City title, further adding to the challenges faced by the former royal.
