Royalty in Turmoil: Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie Navigate Father’s Scandal
The daughters of Prince Andrew are facing increased scrutiny as new details emerge regarding their father’s association with Jeffrey Epstein. Both Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are reportedly “broken” amid the ongoing fallout, with questions arising about the extent of their prior knowledge and involvement.
Recent revelations, including emails suggesting lunches with Epstein in Miami shortly after his release from prison, have placed the princesses under a harsh spotlight. The emails similarly indicate they may have been asked to entertain Epstein’s contacts and provide tours of Buckingham Palace. While Prince Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing, and simply being named in the Epstein files isn’t an indication of wrongdoing, the situation presents a significant challenge for his daughters.
“It will raise questions from the public about just what they were doing,” says royal commentator Richard Palmer. However, royal journalist Victoria Murphy notes there continues to be sympathy towards the princesses, stating the situation is “really, really uncomfortable reading.”
At the time of the alleged Miami lunch, Princess Eugenie was 19 and Princess Beatrice was 21. Sources emphasize they were adults at the time, not young children. The situation is further complicated by the princesses’ attempts to distance themselves from the scandal, a task described as having “difficulty” by observers.
The ongoing investigation and public attention surrounding Prince Andrew are inevitably impacting Beatrice and Eugenie, placing them in a tough position within the Royal Family. Like Prince Harry, they now find themselves somewhat on the outskirts of the institution, navigating a complex landscape of public perception and familial loyalty. The scrutiny comes at a time when the British Royal Family is already under intense media observation, and the situation adds another layer of complexity to their public image.
As of February 19, 2026, both princesses are reportedly deeply affected by the developments. The case continues to unfold, with authorities continuing their investigation in Prince Andrew’s former residence. Even former U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in, calling the arrest “very sad.”
