Now, reports suggest the Royal Family has barred them from attending royal engagements for the foreseeable future.
The Royal Family has faced significant upheaval following revelations about former Prince Andrew’s close association with the late convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. With the release of the Epstein files, it also emerged that his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, had links to him as well.
Their daughters, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, have largely stayed out of the spotlight. However, reports indicate that after the latest disclosures — and their father’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in office a few weeks ago — the sisters may have distanced themselves from him.
Different reactions behind the scenes
Beatrice and Eugenie are said to have handled their parents’ involvement in the Epstein scandal in different ways. According to reports, both have struggled with the publication of the latest files.
Per Express, citing Radar Online, a source claimed, “Beatrice has always had a fiercely loyal streak, especially when it comes to her father. Her instinct is to stand by Andrew and show solidarity, regardless of the public backlash.”
The insider added, “She feels that turning away in difficult moments would only deepen the fracture.”
King Charles has publicly stated that he intends to cooperate fully with police following his brother’s arrest in February. Meanwhile, Prince William and Kate Middleton have remained largely silent and have not stepped forward publicly on the matter.
Now, action appears to have been taken regarding Beatrice and Eugenie.
According to the Daily Mail, the sisters have been informed that they will not be permitted to attend the royal box at Royal Ascot this year. The prestigious horse racing event, typically attended by numerous members of the Royal Family, is scheduled for June. However, the sisters — aged 37 and 35 — reportedly will not be present.
A source told the Daily Mail: “I’ve spoken to my friend who works at Ascot, and they said the girls have been told they can’t be there this year.”
The insider continued, “Beatrice has taken it the hardest. She’s been completely blindsided by all of this.”
The reported decision is believed to be connected to the continuing fallout surrounding their parents’ past association with Jeffrey Epstein.