Loose Women panellist Nadia Sawalha has voiced profound concerns for Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, describing their royal status as a "curse" in the wake of their father's dramatic arrest. The emotional discussion unfolded on the ITV daytime show, focusing on the fallout from Prince Andrew's detention on allegations of misconduct in a public office, tied to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Sympathy for the Princesses
When asked if she felt sympathy for the daughters of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Sawalha responded with empathy, highlighting the unique challenges they face. "I can have sympathy for the daughters that saw their father taken off at four in the morning," she said, referencing Andrew's arrest on his 66th birthday, February 19. "It will have been a massive shock. I think it's a curse to be born into families that have that complete removal from the world."
Defending Their Upbringing
Sawalha strongly disagreed with suggestions that the princesses should have questioned their family's wealth and privileges more closely. "With people born into a lot of money—would they really?" she argued. "They grew up in a completely different world where everyone went on lots of holidays. You're born into a class and an elite group of people that talk in a certain way." She cited emails from their mother, Sarah Ferguson, that allegedly brushed aside concerns after Epstein's release from prison.
Broader Monarchy Debate
The conversation expanded into a critique of the royal institution itself. Sawalha expressed that the monarchy feels outdated and could be significantly reduced. "When you look at other European countries—they still have castles, palaces, things that tourists would come for. It seems so extreme here," she noted. When co-host Kaye Adams asked if she leaned towards "Rexit"—a term the panel coined for scrapping the monarchy—Sawalha confirmed, "I am leaning towards Rexit."
Financial and Reputational Concerns
Fellow panellist Oti Mabuse countered, pointing out the monarchy's economic benefits, but Sawalha retorted, "And potentially a lot of shame." This exchange underscored the tension between tradition and modern scrutiny, especially amid Andrew's legal troubles, which include past accusations of sexual assault—allegations he denies—following Epstein's convictions.
Wider Media Reaction
Andrew's arrest has dominated daytime television, sparking emotional responses across shows. On This Morning, presenter Ashley James was brought to tears while discussing the case, praising the bravery of the late Virginia Giuffre, who accused Andrew of sexual assault. "I felt a huge sense of relief yesterday watching Andrew be arrested," James said, though she clarified the arrest relates to state matters, not the sexual abuse allegations.
The ongoing coverage highlights the intense public and media focus on the royal family's controversies, with Sawalha's comments adding a personal dimension to the debate over privilege, accountability, and the future of the monarchy.
